Olive Rambo Cook (1892-1981)

American author of children's novels and short stories. She was born on a farm in Avalon in 1892 but when her mother died when she was just a small child, she and her father moved to the town of Chillicothe where she was raised by him and her grandmother. However, though they left the farm behind, Ms. Cook recalled it was like a miniature farm with various pets, chickens and even cows living in the garden!* 

She had 6 books published between the 1950s and the 1980s, but also wrote many short stories. Her books were set in Livingstone county and many of the events in them were based on real life happenings in the county. The pioneer lifestyle was a favourite topic of the author's, as were horses who appeared in three of her books. Her last book - Trails to Poosey - was published posthumously.

As well as being a writer, Ms. Cook was also a talented artist and had her first picture exhibited at the ripe old age of 80!


*Reference: Constitution Tribune October 24, 1959.

Serilda Series:
Short historical pony series set in the times of the Pioneers.

1) SERILDA'S STAR
(LONGMANS[USA] 1959)
ILLUSTRATED BY HELEN TORREY
Reprinted in paperback by Washington Square Press in 1970
SUMMARY: Serilda trades her gold locket for a neglected lame mare whom she restores to health and names Star. She soon finds out Stari s to have a foal. But then the trader comes back and threatens to take Star away with him.

2) LOCKET
(LONGMANS [USA] 1963)
ILLUSTRATED BY HELEN TORREY
Reprinted a .
SUMMARY: Star now has a lovely black filly called Locket. Serilda and her friend Katie teach Locket circus tricks so she can earn them some money.

Collector's Info:
In the USA, Serilda's Star is reasonably easy to find. Locket appears to be much rarer. All three are hard to find elsewhere.

Other Pony Books:

TRAILS TO POOSEY
(MISTY HILL PRESS PB [USA] 1986)
ILLUSTRATED BY CHELSEA SAMMEL
Published posthumously.
Paperback original.
SUMMARY: Not a true pony book perhaps, more a historical story about a group of pioneers which also has some horse content. Nathan and his family set out west on horseback, Nathan riding his pregnant mare. He does not want to leave as he has been studying with his grandpa to become a doctor. After months of travelling they settle down in their new home. When Nathan's mare gives birth the foal has problems with her legs and Nathan, using his doctoring skills, splints the legs. Then his father goes missing...

Collector's Info:
In the USA, Trails to Poosey is reasonably easy to find. Harder to find elsewhere.