Author: Surplice, Holly
Reading age: from c 9 years
Published on 9 October 2025 by Chicken House Ltd in the United Kingdom.
Hardback | 192 pages
210 x 147 x 21 | 342g
A stunning, hopeful and poignant middle-grade animal
story, written and illustrated by debut author Holly Surplice.
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 new-found strength to help her mum
and her sisters heal too.
A perfect Christmas gift for readers aged 9 and up; all
the makings of a modern classic.
A beautiful jacketed hardback with blue ink interior
printing.
Explores themes of grief, family and healing in an accessible
way for young readers.
Shades of Lauren St John and Marianne Dreams.