Title: The Race Is On!
Author: Melisa Calcote
Publisher: URLink Print & Media, LLC
ISBN: B0D9KWS1JM
Pages: 82
Genre: Fiction
Reviewer: Jennifer Bailey
Pacific Book Review
Readers are introduced to Jeremy who is a little shy and weary of Fireball’s unpredictable antics. Fireball is Charlie’s horse (who is Jeremy’s cousin) and he is preparing for his first time on the racetrack with jockey Alex astride his back. Mysteriously there is a person always talking to the horse, but only Jeremy can see this person. Jeremy and Jenny’s family have a long line of horse racers, could this person be the spirit of a family member or is Jeremy just imagining things?
The Race Is On is a charming tale about family legacies and history centered around horse racing and spiritual energies. While the storytelling seems to jump around, it is an undemanding reading with an effortless flow and moderate pace. A book that can easily be read within one or two sittings. Readers will be drawn into the story of Jeremy’s interaction with Fireball and the mysterious spirit as well as the rest of the family and horses. The horses in the story are as important to the storyline as the human characters are, which add a special charm.
Readers will find that learning the mystery of the spirit’s identity in this novella to be an enjoyable and pleasurable read. All the characters are delightful and interesting, although some may become confused at times with the similar names of Jeremy and Jenny, but that confusion wears off as one continues to turn the pages. Calcote does a wonderful job at setting the scenes for her readers and showing them what is happening all around. Readers are able to perfectly envision what she is trying to portray.
The shorter page count makes The Race Is On perfect for young readers who are beginning to read more. Whether you are a reader who enjoys horse stories or even a short story about a good family legacy mystery, with some paranormal mixed in, The Race Is On is a wonderful addition to any bookshelf.
This is a great starter book for someone who is trying to figure out what their favorite genre would be. Melisa Calcote provides readers with a tale that knows no age limit and will entertain readers of all ages. The Race Is On! is an uplifting story that instills confidence and resilience with all readers. Parents, educators, and young readers will appreciate its positive message and ability to spark meaningful conversations about hard work and determination.
