The Horses of Oak Valley Ranch series by Jane Smiley is a collection of five novels that follow Abby Lovitt, a young girl growing up on her family’s horse ranch in 1960s California. Throughout the series, Abby navigates the challenges of adolescence, horse training, and family dynamics.

1. The Georges and the Jewels
In the series opener, Abby helps her father train horses for sale, each named George or Jewel to prevent attachment. She faces challenges at school and home, especially with a difficult horse her father insists she ride.

2. A Good Horse
Abby bonds with a promising colt named Jack, but when it’s discovered he might be stolen property, she fears losing him. The story delves into themes of responsibility and the complexities of horse ownership.

3. True Blue
Abby encounters True Blue, a beautiful horse with a mysterious past. As she uncovers more about him, she learns valuable lessons about trust and resilience.

4. Pie in the Sky
Abby takes on the challenge of training Pie in the Sky, a horse with great potential but also significant issues. The journey tests her skills and patience, reflecting her growth as a horsewoman.

5. Gee Whiz
In the series conclusion, Abby works with Gee Whiz, a striking horse that brings new adventures and decisions, encapsulating her development and the series’ recurring themes of growth and connection with horses.

Throughout the series, readers experience Abby’s evolution amidst the backdrop of horse training, family life, and personal discovery.