Jeannie and the Gentle Giants, a novel for readers eight to fourteen, deals with the problems experienced by children when they are taken from their parents and have to make a new life with foster parents in a new community. In Jeannie’s case, the problems begin when her mother falls ill and can no longer care for her. Taken from her home, placed with foster parents and unable to discover the whereabouts of her ill mother, young Jeannie withdraws into herself and can think only of running away. Gradually her defences are breached by two immensely large and wonderful workhorses and their perceptive and humorous owner. Through the horses and her work on the farm, Jeannie develops new interests, learns to ride and becomes involved in the daily life of the farm, even helping with horse-logging. In turn, Jeannie learns about friendship, love and trust, and ultimately gains the maturity and self-confidence to accept the challenge of becoming herself a care-giver. In this sensitive and moving story, Luanne Armstrong draws us into a world of pain, growth and fulfilment.

"Luanne Armstrong succeeds in blending action with quiet, unforgettable insight into the inner feelings of people and animals. A thoroughly satisfying read that speaks of courage, trust and inner strength." — Joan Weir, author of The Brideship and The Principal’s Kid

"In this story, the Gentle Giants slowly walk right through our hearts. We will forever remember their presence in Jeannie’s life and that the great Gentle Giants never forget." — Lorne Dufour, horse-logger & award-winning author

A separate Teacher’s Guide is available for $5.95. Order directly from Ronsdale Press.

Luanne Armstrong as a young girl lived on an organic farm in the Kootenay region of B.C., where she learned about draft horses and horse logging. She has an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of B.C. and has taught Creative Writing at the University of Alberta, the College of the Rockies and the Kootenay School of Arts in Nelson. She has written two previous books for children – Maggie and Shine (Hodgepog, 1999), Arly and Spike (Hodgepog, 1997), three novels – The Colour of Water (Caitlin, 1998), Bordering (Ragweed, 1995), Annie (Polestar, 1995) – and two books of poetry – The Woman in the Garden (Peachtree, 1996), Castle Mountain (Polestar, 1981). Recently she became the managing editor of Hodgepog Books.