3.74
Part of "Pony Pals" series
"The Winning Pony" by Jeanne Betancourt is a heartwarming and engaging chapter book, perfect for young readers who love horses and adventure. This book is the first in the "Pony Pals" series, which follows the journey of three friends - Lulu, Meg, and Sabrina - as they navigate the ups and downs of middle school and their passion for horses. In "The Winning Pony," Lulu is thrilled when she learns that she will be able to ride and train a pony at her local riding stable. However, she quickly realizes that winning the blue ribbon at the upcoming horse show will be harder than she thought. With the help of her friends and the support of her family, Lulu learns that hard work, determination, and a little bit of creativity can go a long way. Betancourt's writing style is accessible and engaging, making it easy for young readers to get lost in the story. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the descriptions of the horses and the stable are so vivid that readers will feel like they are right there alongside Lulu and her friends. One of the strengths of this book is its positive messages about friendship, perseverance, and the importance of following your dreams. Lulu's journey to the horse show is not just about winning a ribbon - it's about learning to believe in herself and her abilities, and about the power of friendship to help us through tough times. Overall, "The Winning Pony" is a delightful and inspiring read for young horse lovers and anyone who enjoys a good story about friendship and determination. It's a great choice for parents, teachers, and librarians looking for books that will engage and inspire young readers...
Bonnie Bryant
The Saddle Club series
If you enjoyed 'The Winning Pony' and are looking for more horse-related stories, you might like 'The Saddle Club' series by Bonnie Bryant. This series follows the adventures of three friends who form a riding club and take care of horses at a stable. Each book in the series focuses on a different character and her personal challenges, both on and off the saddle.
Learn MoreMarguerite Henry
Misty of Chincoteague
For a classic horse story, you might enjoy 'Misty of Chincoteague' by Marguerite Henry. This beloved novel tells the story of two siblings who dream of owning a wild horse from Chincoteague Island. The book is based on a real-life event and features beautiful descriptions of the island and its horses.
Learn MoreAnna Sewell
Black Beauty
Another classic horse story is 'Black Beauty' by Anna Sewell. This novel is narrated by the horse himself and follows his life from a happy childhood on a farm to a difficult life in London. The book is a powerful critique of animal cruelty and a moving story of resilience and friendship.
Learn MoreC.S. Lewis
The Horse and His Boy
If you're looking for a horse story with a fantastical twist, you might enjoy 'The Horse and His Boy' by C.S. Lewis. This novel is part of the Chronicles of Narnia series and follows the adventures of a talking horse and his human companion as they journey across a magical land to save Narnia from danger.
Learn MoreMarguerite Henry
King of the Wind
Another great horse story by Marguerite Henry is 'King of the Wind'. This novel tells the story of a desert horse who becomes the founder of the Thoroughbred breed. The book is based on the true story of the Godolphin Arabian and features beautiful descriptions of the horse's journey from Morocco to England.
Learn MoreEnid Bagnold
National Velvet
For a classic horse story with a strong female lead, you might enjoy 'National Velvet' by Enid Bagnold. This novel tells the story of a young girl named Velvet Brown who dreams of riding in the Grand National steeplechase. With the help of a wild horse and a gruff trainer, Velvet embarks on a journey of self-discovery and determination.
Learn MoreJohn Steinbeck
The Red Pony
For a more literary take on the horse story genre, you might enjoy 'The Red Pony' by John Steinbeck. This novella tells the story of a young boy named Jody Tiflin who dreams of owning his own horse. The book explores themes of maturity, loss, and the harsh realities of rural life.
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