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Book Cover for: The Christmas Horse Rescue (Christmas story about kindness): A Heartwarming middle grade holiday fiction Story of Friendship, Family, and the Magic of, Laura Ashwood

The Christmas Horse Rescue (Christmas story about kindness): A Heartwarming middle grade holiday fiction Story of Friendship, Family, and the Magic of

Laura Ashwood

The Christmas Horse Rescue

A heartwarming holiday story of courage, compassion, and the magic of second chances.

When twelve-year-old Ellie and her little brother Jack discover an abandoned horse shivering in the snow just before Christmas, their world changes forever. With the help of a retired riding instructor and a small-town community, they learn that kindness, teamwork, and courage can heal even the deepest wounds.

Set against the snowy charm of Maple Hollow, The Christmas Horse Rescue blends the cozy spirit of the holidays with an unforgettable animal rescue adventure. As the children work to save the horse they name Star, they uncover what the season is truly about - hope, family, and the joy of giving.

Perfect for middle-grade readers, families, teachers, and homeschoolers, this story gently weaves themes of empathy, trust, and second chances into a warm and uplifting Christmas tale. Readers who love Black Beauty, The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey, or The One and Only Ivan will find this story both comforting and inspiring.

Why This Book Is Different

  • Wholesome and meaningful: A gentle, emotionally rich story that celebrates compassion over consumerism.
  • Educational value: Includes a Teacher and Homeschool Resource Section with discussion questions, vocabulary lists, and kindness challenges tied to social-emotional learning goals.
  • Timeless appeal: Combines the magic of a holiday classic with the depth of a modern family story.
  • Inspires action: Encourages readers to care for animals and each other through small acts of everyday kindness.

Themes & Keywords

Christmas horse rescue; heartwarming holiday story; homeschool read-aloud; kindness and empathy for kids; animal rescue fiction; family Christmas story; middle-grade holiday book; wholesome winter chapter book; inspirational animal story for classrooms.

Beautifully written and full of heart, The Christmas Horse Rescue is the perfect holiday read-aloud, classroom gift, or family tradition for anyone who believes that love can change everything.

Book Details

  • Publisher: Vibrant Books
  • Publish Date: Oct 21st, 2025
  • Pages: 232
  • Language: English
  • Edition: undefined - undefined
  • Dimensions: 9.00in - 6.00in - 0.49in - 0.70lb
  • EAN: 9783351711320
  • Recommended age: 13-18
  • Categories: Animals - Horses

Praise for this book

"A truly heartwarming Christmas story that teaches kindness and courage without feeling preachy."

Ellie and Jack's journey with Star is unforgettable, and the classroom discussion guide is a huge bonus.

Megan Larson, 5th Grade Teacher, Cedar Falls, Iowa

"The Christmas Horse Rescue belongs on every family's holiday bookshelf."

My students connected deeply with its message about compassion and responsibility. Perfect for read-aloud time in December.

Angela Brooks, Homeschool Mom and Curriculum Blogger, Asheville, North Carolina

"This story has all the warmth of a classic - snow, hope, and a rescued horse who captures your heart."

Beautifully written, it inspires empathy and community spirit in every chapter.

Dr. James Riley, Children's Librarian, Portland, Oregon