Thunder Horse

Reviewed by: Amy McInerney - Falmouth Elementary School, Falmouth, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: June 12, 2018

Review

Eve Bunting has written another classic story that will capture children's imaginations. When Aunt Aldora gifts the main character with a miniature horse, she also leaves her with a warning that the horse will someday grow and leave her. As she cares for the horse and names him Pegasus, he does in fact grow, and beautiful feathered wings appear on its back. Each night, the girl and Pegasus go on night rides, until one day, the horse leaves on its own. The main character searches the night sky for shooting stars, and on these nights, Pegasus returns and the two ride through the night together. This beautifully simple story is an allegory for the power of loving something and setting it free. Delicate illustrations beautifully pair with text and young readers will find comfort in this magical story. This book is also a perfect mentor text for older grades when learning to identify and write fantasy. Highly recommended for every library.

Overall Book Score: very good