Interviews

Bryn Fleming Author Q&A for Range Riders Series

Q: What inspired you to write your Range Riders series? A: When I moved from a large city to a tiny western cow-town ten years ago I began to write down stories I heard from the local ranchers. I noted the interesting people, places, and situations they told me about and developed them into stories. By doing so, I’ve been able to include a lot of authentic detail and dialect in my books.

Q: Are there elements of the story that relate to your own life? A: Basically, my character, Cassie, is the cowgirl I wanted to be as a kid: she lives on a cattle ranch, rides her horse everywhere and, with the help of her best friend, rescues animals in trouble. What more could a girl want?

Q: What will kids relate to? A: Kids will relate to the struggles and challenges that Cassie and Jasper face and to their adventurous spirits. Many will share the characters’ love of animals in general and their relationships with their beloved dogs and horses.

Q: What do adults say they like about the books? A: Adults appreciate that the books do not talk down to children but relate to them in a respectful and mature way. The topics and language are interesting and challenging and assume that the reader has an intelligent and sensitive view of life.

Q: What are some of the difficult issues and life events covered in the book that librarians could use to recommend the book? A: Even in their small, remote town, Cassie and Jasper confront many of the same issues as their urban counterparts: bullying, loss of a parent, family ties and loyalties, and the bonds of childhood friendship are all addressed.

Q: What will educators and parents find valuable? A: Librarians, educators, and parents will appreciate the fresh, realistic setting (no fantastic mystic worlds here!) and characters who deal with real-life challenges in creative ways.