Discover books similar to "Riding Freedom"

Pam Muñoz Ryan

Riding Freedom

4.16

"Riding Freedom" by Pam Muñoz Ryan is a compelling and engaging historical fiction novel for young readers. The book tells the story of Charlotte "Charley" Darkey Parkhurst, a young orphaned girl who disguises herself as a boy in order to survive and pursue her dream of becoming a stagecoach driver in 19th century California. The novel explores themes of identity, freedom, and perseverance as Charley navigates the challenges and dangers of life on the frontier. Along the way, she encounters a diverse cast of characters, including a group of kind and supportive Chinese immigrants, a fierce and independent female stagecoach driver, and a ruthless and dangerous outlaw. Ryan's writing is vivid and descriptive, bringing the wild and untamed landscape of California to life in the minds of readers. She also does an excellent job of portraying the historical context of the time, including the discrimination and prejudice faced by women, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community. One of the strengths of "Riding Freedom" is its strong and well-developed protagonist. Charley is a complex and relatable character, who is both tough and vulnerable, brave and scared, independent and in need of connection. Ryan skillfully portrays Charley's struggles with her identity and her desire for freedom, making her a sympathetic and engaging character for readers to root for. Overall, "Riding Freedom" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to readers of all ages. Its themes of identity, freedom, and perseverance are timeless and universal, and its engaging and well-developed protagonist will leave readers cheering for Charley until the very end. This book is a great addition to any classroom or library, and is sure to inspire and empower young readers to pursue their dreams and fight for what they believe in...

List of books similar to "Riding Freedom":

Elizabeth George Speare

The Sign of the Beaver

In this Newbery Honor book, a young boy named Matt is left alone to guard his family's wilderness home in Maine while his father returns to civilization. Matt's survival skills are put to the test when he befriends an Indian chief's son, who teaches him how to live off the land. Like 'Riding Freedom', this book also explores themes of friendship, survival, and the relationship between humans and nature.

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Elizabeth George Speare

The Witch of Blackbird Pond

Set in the Puritan community of Connecticut in 1687, this Newbery Medal-winning book tells the story of Katherine, a 16-year-old girl who is accused of being a witch. Like 'Riding Freedom', this book explores themes of identity, belonging, and the struggle against societal expectations. It also features a strong and independent female protagonist.

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Louise Erdrich

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This book tells the story of Omakayas, a young Ojibwa girl living on an island in Lake Superior in 1847. Like 'Riding Freedom', this book provides insight into the experiences of marginalized communities and the challenges they face. It also explores themes of family, community, and the relationship between humans and nature.

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Mildred D. Taylor

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Set in Mississippi during the Great Depression, this book tells the story of the Logan family, who are determined to hold on to their land and their dignity in the face of racism and discrimination. Like 'Riding Freedom', this book explores themes of identity, belonging, and the struggle against societal expectations. It also features a strong and independent female protagonist.

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Robin McKinley

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This book tells the story of Aerin, a young princess who must prove herself as a hero in a kingdom plagued by dragons and darkness. Like 'Riding Freedom', this book features a strong and brave female protagonist who defies societal norms and expectations. It also explores themes of identity, courage, and the power of determination.

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Elizabeth Marie Pope

The Perilous Gard

This book tells the story of Kate, a young noblewoman who is sent to live in a remote castle in England, where she becomes embroiled in a plot to rescue the queen's son from the clutches of a mysterious sorcerer. Like 'Riding Freedom', this book explores themes of identity, belonging, and the struggle against societal expectations. It also features a strong and independent female protagonist.

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Avi

The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle

This book tells the story of Charlotte Doyle, a young girl who is accused of mutiny and murder after a transatlantic voyage. Like 'Riding Freedom', this book features a strong and brave female protagonist who defies societal norms and expectations. It also explores themes of identity, courage, and the power of determination.

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This book tells the story of Cassie, a young African-American girl growing up in Mississippi during the Great Depression. Like 'Riding Freedom', this book explores themes of identity, belonging, and the struggle against societal expectations. It also features a strong and independent female protagonist.

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Julia Golding

The Diamond of Drury Lane

This book tells the story of Cat, a young girl who lives in a theater and becomes embroiled in a plot to steal a valuable diamond. Like 'Riding Freedom', this book features a strong and brave female protagonist who defies societal norms and expectations. It also explores themes of identity, courage, and the power of determination.

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Jacqueline Kelly

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate

This book tells the story of Calpurnia, a young girl growing up in Texas in 1899, who discovers a love of science and nature. Like 'Riding Freedom', this book explores themes of identity, belonging, and the struggle against societal expectations. It also features a strong and independent female protagonist.

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