The first YA book published by Welsh independent publisher Graffeg, The Ranch at the End of the World is a romantic adventure story featuring Nell Dart, a young, troubled member of the LGBTQ+ community. Written by Emma Bettridge, who is also a part of the community, The Ranch at the End of the World features a range of struggling teenagers from a variety of different backgrounds who are all given their last chance of gaining an education at the ‘Ranch at the End of the World’.
Nell Dart has been kicked out of school and onto a bus, taking her to the middle of actual nowhere (Wales). Leaving behind her first love, Soph, she embarks on an adventure in search of a stolen horse and a night alone with Fran, whose mum manages the Ranch, in the forest. Surrounded by a group of other ‘dropouts’, Nell is still trying to find herself in the hills of rural Wales.
A perfect coming-of-age story for all young teenagers, The Ranch at the End of the World draws attention to unconventional and alternative forms of behavioural therapy, including equine therapy.
Emma Bettridge’s enthralling and engaging text is accompanied by several pencil illustrations by artist Josephine Birch.
Emma Bettridge says, ‘The Graffeg team are a little bit magic. Their vision, care and attention to detail is so special and I am beyond delighted that my first Young Adult book will be published under their new imprint, Cadno.’
Matthew Howard, Publishing Director of Graffeg, adds, ‘The Ranch at the End of the World is one of those stories that arrives as a submission and then haunts you until you publish it. As a first foray into YA it’s a real tour de force and we’re delighted to be working with Emma on publishing it as part of our Cadno imprint. With issues of identity and understanding at its heart, it really does capture what our new venture is all about.’
Author Information
Emma Bettridge is a theatre producer and writer based near Taunton. She has worked for several major theatres and festivals including Bristol Old Vic, Pulse festival at the New Wolsey Theatre, Caravan2014 (Farnham Maltings/Brighton Festival) and the Pleasance London and Edinburgh Theatres. Emma has always worked with children and animals, through training young horses and dogs, to PGL residential camps and as a riding school teacher for many years. She is also the author of two picture books: Goodbye Hobbs and Red is Home.
Author image © Claire Fear
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