A horse lover has penned a children’s book promoting inclusivity, with funds of its sale going towards the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA). Jade Leahy’s second book Horses can do Ballet features a pony mad girl who is challenged by disability. She is desperate to do ballet lessons like her friends, when Rosie the piebald cob enters her life. They learn to dance together, discovering fun and self- acceptance along the way.
Author Jade got her first pony, a Shetland called Nuggets, she was two years old and has been interested in horses ever since. She published her first children’s book in 2020, based on her beloved Fjord horse Odin, who lived to 35. She then purchased Rosie the cob, the inspiration for her second book.
“As a rider with quite significant disabilities I need a special horse and I had no idea [how challenging] building trust in a new chapter with Rosie would be,” she told Your Horse. “Without the support of The RDA I would have retired from the saddle all together, but a lovely lady Sarah Llyod Harris from our local branch came to support us. I’d gone from hacking solo to a lead rein and side walkers once more.
“Gradually, we progressed and we are now hacking quite happily. Since Sarah wouldn’t even take any money for fuel I decided to publish my first book as a tribute to Odin and a thank you to the RDA.”
Odin’s book has been enjoyed by readers as far afield as Hong Kong and Australia, winning best international children’s therapy book at the Equus Festival.
“Fast forward, and it seemed only fitting that Rosie should be the star of her own book,” continued Jade. “The books are based on me and my animals and the main character Molly fulfills my dreams.”
Jade now offers author visits to groups and schools. Her books are available at www.jadeleahy.co.uk/shop/ or via Amazon for £8.99. Every copy donates to The RDA.
You can also follow Jade and Rosie’s latest news on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok.
