The Horse Dreamer by Surplice, Holly

A classic in the making, The Horse Dreamer is a stunning, hopeful and poignant story about one girl and a horse who helps her rediscover the joy and life that surround us.

A creature of courage and hope.

A companion when you are lost.

A friend when you are alone.

The horse arrives in the storm, when Merryn needs him most, following the loss of her father. Sorrel is a dreamlike creature, seemingly made from the woods and the sea. Perhaps she wished him into existence. He becomes her friend and confidant.

Throughout the summer and autumn, they ride and play, but as Christmas approaches, it will require all of Merryn's newfound strength to help her mom and her sisters heal too.

A stunning, hopeful, and poignant middle-grade story, written and illustrated by debut author Holly Surplice, The Horse Dreamer is a modern classic in the making.

Author: Holly Surplice
Publisher: Chicken House
Published: 11/03/2026
Pages: 192
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.75lbs
Size: 7.80h x 5.50w x 1.10d
ISBN: 9798225062026
Audience: Ages 9-12

Review Citation(s):
Publishers Weekly 09/14/2026
Kirkus Reviews 09/15/2026
Booklist 11/01/2026

About the Author

Holly lives in the beautiful Outer Hebrides with her three children, Painter and Pencil the dogs, Penny Crayon the cat, and a collection of other furry and feathered family. Island life inspires both her written and illustrative work but many of her stories come from observing the animals around her and remembering her farming childhood. Holly studied illustration at Edinburgh College of Art, with her first picture book acquired by Walker Books during her degree show. Holly's books are full of heart, with meaningful writing and expressive illustration.