2005 Bank Street College of Education Children’s Book Committee Teen List pick
"It's been a few years since my cherished books such as The Crumb and the Black Stallion graced my bedside table, but I've now found another to add to my all-time favorites list: The Perfect Distance by Kim Ablon Whitney. In addition to being a talented writer, Whitney is an accomplished hunter/jumper rider and USEF R-rated judge who has competed in and judged the country's best shows. These two attributes are an awesome (and rare) combination that allows Whitney to write this book from her heart-and it shows. Whitney's book is destined to become one of those classic horse books that readers of all ages will enjoy and remember fondly for years to come."
-Tricia Booker, The Chronicle of the Horse
The tension and self-doubts experienced by athletes at the top of the national horse riding competition (the under-18 category)are the foundation of a moving, suspenseful reading experience for YAs. It's a world Whitney knows about firsthand, which makes the story all the more powerful. Any adolescent in any highly competitive arena, whether it is basketball or gymnastics, dance or musical performance,will recognize the truth of Francie's story. Obviously, all YAs who love horses and horse stories will eat this up. It also will appeal to a larger group of YA readers who like stories of competition and excellence. Winning takes on a whole new meaning in Whitney's competitive world--The Perfect Distance may be an individual journey of growth.
-Claire Rosser, KLIATT
Don't be misled by the cover -- this is not "just another horse book." With The Perfect Distance, Kim Ablon Whitney delivers a smart, sensitive story about the nature of competition, the power of self-confidence, and the occasional necessity of compromise. Teens will find it easy to relate to protagonist Francie Martinez and will find themselves cheering her on as she steers her way around obstacles in both the riding ring and her social life. Francie's experiences will surely resonate with readers (girls especially) who will enjoy being along for the ride.
-Alison Morris, The Wellesley Booksmith
An absorbing look into the pressure-packed world of the equitation finals, where each year hundreds of teenagers ride horses that cost more than most houses. Francie's complex, well-nuanced personality drives the story, and the supporting cast of teenage rivals brings it vividly to life. In addition, the equine details are exactly right.
-Kirkus Reviews
Whitney inhabits Francie's character wholly and convincingly and gets the universals of serious competition just right
-Booklist Magazine
"Kids will love this book, because most of us never live out the dream, but with Francie we do. Yet she also realizes there's more to life than winning, which we all come to learn in the end."
-Caraneen Smith, MedalMaclay.com
