Kingfisher Book of Horse and Pony Stories Book

Now in paperback "these well-written and sensitively selected stories" (School Library Journal) will take readers on the ride of a lifetime. Sure to appeal to horse lovers, this treasury explores the world of these magnificent animals and the special relationship that they share with their riders. Carefully chosen by equestrian expert Jenny Oldfield, this collection includes twelve moving stories full of warm humor and exhilarating adventures. Powerful full-color illustrations by leading artists make this a perfect gift for horse enthusiasts of all ages.

VOYA

Comprising a collection that runs from historical fiction to fantasy, this handsomely presented volume will appeal to young horse lovers. Each story features a youthful protagonist, the majority of whom are girls. Bobbi, the thirteen-year-old daughter of a ranch owner loses her Appaloosa, La Gata, when the mare is horribly injured in a fall down a mountainside, only to gain a new horse when her father's chief hand retires after his last roundup. Klaus and Hans, rival students at Vienna's famed Spanish Riding School, discover that hard work and the ability to learn from their mistakes are the keys to success. A carousel slated for demolition lures Suzie into one last magical ride where her pony springs to life and leaves the carousel forever. This collection's creative, full color illustrations add life and beauty to the stories. Although the twelve anecdotes feature a variety of plots and settings, their idealism and overall nanvetT will appeal to Saddle Club fans or readers of Oldfield's Horses of Half Moon Ranch series. Older, more equine knowledgeable teens might be critical of the occasional inaccuracies (for example stating that a broken rein would allow the bit to drag near the ground) and too simple, saccharine endings. Find a spot on the shelf in your children's department where this book can find a wider audience. Reviewer: Nancy K. Wallace