Saddle up for an unforgettable ride with the High Hurdles series, where teenage dreams, equestrian thrills, and heartfelt faith collide! Written by Lauraine Snelling, this ten-book Christian fiction saga follows DJ Randall, a determined young girl chasing her Olympic show-jumping dreams. Perfect for horse lovers and fans of coming-of-age tales, High Hurdles blends heart-pounding competitions with life’s toughest challenges, making it a timeless gem for readers young and old.
From rural barns to the glitz of the show ring, DJ’s journey captures the spirit of perseverance. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just love a good story, High Hurdles invites you to leap into a world where faith and grit turn dreams into reality. Let’s explore how this series galloped into readers’ hearts!
How High Hurdles Began
Lauraine Snelling, an award-winning author with over 80 books to her name, kicked off High Hurdles in 1995 with a passion for horses and storytelling. Inspired by her dream to write horse books for kids, Snelling crafted a series that blends her love for equestrian life with Christian values. Published by Bethany House, High Hurdles emerged as a follow-up to her popular Golden Filly series, focusing on a new heroine, DJ Randall, and her Olympic aspirations. Snelling’s knack for authentic characters and vivid settings quickly made the series a favorite among young readers.
The Heart of High Hurdles
The series spans ten books, each chronicling DJ’s growth as a rider and person. In Olympic Dreams (Book 1), thirteen-year-old DJ teams up with her best friend, Amy, to earn money for her first horse, facing family tensions and self-doubt along the way. DJ’s Challenge (Book 2) sees her grappling with her mom’s new job and a potential move, testing her resolve. Raising the Bar (Book 9) delivers high stakes as DJ saves horses from a burning barn, suffering injuries that challenge her dreams. Finally, Class Act (Book 10) wraps up her journey with a recovery that tests her courage to ride again.
Set in the rolling hills of rural America, High Hurdles weaves themes of faith, perseverance, and family into its equestrian adventures. DJ’s struggles—balancing school, training, and a fractured family—resonate with teens, while her reliance on prayer and community adds depth. Snelling’s style is warm and relatable, with vivid descriptions of horse training and show-jumping that thrill readers. The series’ Christian undertones never feel heavy-handed, making it accessible to a wide audience.
From mucking stalls to competing in A-rated shows, DJ’s world feels authentic, thanks to Snelling’s attention to equestrian details. Minor flaws, like occasional inaccuracies (e.g., calling eventing a “long course”), don’t detract from the series’ charm. Instead, DJ’s emotional complexity and growth keep readers hooked across all ten books.
Why High Hurdles Resonates
High Hurdles has left hoofprints on the hearts of young readers, especially horse enthusiasts. Its blend of equestrian action and real-life struggles makes it a standout in Christian young adult fiction. Fans praise DJ’s relatability, with reviews noting how her flaws and triumphs mirror their own teenage years. The series’ focus on faith and resilience has inspired readers to tackle their own “hurdles,” while its vivid horse world sparks dreams of riding.
With over 4.5 million copies of Snelling’s books sold, High Hurdles remains a beloved niche series. Its legacy lies in its ability to connect with readers through universal themes, proving that even a lesser-known saga can have a big impact. For those seeking a wholesome yet thrilling read, High Hurdles delivers.
- Publication Years: 1995–2000
- Number of Books: 10
- Publisher: Bethany House
- Target Audience: Young adults, horse lovers
Ready to leap into DJ’s world? Grab Olympic Dreams and gallop through the High Hurdles series for a heartwarming, hoof-pounding adventure!