Rudy

2024 Purple Dragonfly Award Winner; 2023 Moonbeam Bronze Award for Best Children's Book Series, Non-Fiction

A true story, Rudy: A Big Horse With a Big Heart, is the first in the Rudy The Roadster book series. Entertaining, educational, and beautifully illustrated, Rudy tells stories about his life and shares how he feels about his experiences. Rudy takes kids on a journey as he makes new friends, bravely learns how to go on trail rides, and discovers water can be fun instead of frightening. His charismatic personality will capture children's hearts and make them want to know what happens next. The book features an equine glossary, horse anatomy, and 20 Fun Horse Facts. Hardcover and suitable for children ages 5-11. Illustrated by Karen Busch Holman.

Jones had no intention of buying a horse, even though she had dreamt of owning one since she was young. Through a series of fortunate events, she bought Rudy for a dollar. Without formal knowledge of horse ownership, she dove headfirst into her life's most significant joy and challenge. After working with Rudy for a year, something clicked in Jones. A story started flowing through her, begging to be shared. The Rudy the Rudster book series was born. Jones's writing goals were to make Rudy relatable to children by sharing his feelings about his experiences. She also is keen to educate kids on all things horse. 
Jones lives in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. She is an animal lover and passionate about protecting the environment. She frequently enjoys her time off in northern Vermont and is an avid downhill skier. 

Karen is a fine artist and children’s book illustrator. Her equine art has been selected for a number of national shows, and she has illustrated more than a dozen children’s books. Schools treasure Karen’s passion as she teaches drawing skills to young children. She lives with her husband, two sons, and a lively collection of farm animals, including her beloved horses, Hwin and Little Bear, in Barrington, New Hampshire.