Editorial Reviews
- A pony named Glory is a handful—so beautiful that she looks like a mythical creature and sweet and loving when she wants to be, but she also possesses a naughty streak that causes trouble… Young horse aficionados will fall in love with this story, which does a marvelous job of teaching readers all about equestrian care and training as well as providing an excellent role model in Abby and other strong female characters. This is a Christian-centered book featuring quotes such as “If things aren’t going as planned, it’s because God has a better plan,” but the focus is on values that transcend specific religions, such as believing in yourself and being honest, generous, and kind, even toward people whom you envy.
- Horse-loving kids will read this novel and recognize a kindred spirit. — Kirkus
What does a horse-crazy girl with no horse of her own do to satisfy her passion? She gets a job in a local stable. And then she falls in love. Abby's Pony Love is a story that will feel familiar to any horse-crazy girl who harbors the passion (but not the opportunity) to interact with horses. Illustrator Bev Johnson adds pictorial drama to Susan Count's tale, providing a compelling cover and cameo images thereof to embellish the story as Count follows Abby's rationale for developing a strategy to satisfy her pony passion. Humor and spiritual components spice the tale with added value: "She opened her decorated box of inspirational quotes and flipped through the colored note cards. “There’s got to be something in here that will help.” A yellow card poked up and she pinched it from the others. “‘When all your eyes see is darkness, look for the light with your heart.’ ” She tossed the card on the desk and picked up another. “‘When all hope is gone, pray for a miracle.’ ” Hmm, miracles are good. “‘If things aren’t going as planned, it’s because God has a better plan.’ ” She dropped the cards back into the box. “That’s what I need—a better plan.” She stood. With a deep breath, she faced her failures. To the mirror, she said, “Be sorry. Be sincere. Beg.”
These elements combine with the horse-centric passion of the plot as Abby's favorite pony moves on and out of her life, creating further conundrums over something she loves like it's her own, even though it isn't. From differences between mares and geldings to horse tack and terminology, Count's story is steeped in the language, feel, and nature of the equine world.
Advanced elementary to early middle grade readers who love horses, and spunky girls determined to be involved with them against all odds, will relish Abby's Pony Love, which covers the topics of love, maturity, friendship, and determination with equal attention. A glossary of horse terms (and even a carrot recipe for horse treats) follows the tale, supporting its atmosphere and style with practical elements of reality.
D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
"An enjoyable read as we journey to answers if Abby gets her job, what happens to Glory, and funny antics of an escaping artist horse.
A read that pulls you in and doesn't let go!" Maureen Timerman — Maureen's Musings
My girls and I have really enjoyed reading this book together. I have a horse crazy daughter, and this story has helped her hold onto hope of being around horses one day. How Abby is determined to follow her dreams through hard work in caring for horses at a barn as well as the horse owners, and still juggle the important things like family and school, I’m pleased to have that model for my daughter to read about and be inspired. This book has good morals and hard working values our young kids need to know, and it’s written in such a lovely, easy-to-read way. Every night, my daughter asks for one more page, or a little more reading time. I hope another book follows soon. Colleen Fox-Bennett
Almost from the first page, I became Abby, and experienced what she felt and accomplished. Susan writes with such an easy descriptive manner and with emotion. I love the little surprise quotes tucked into the story. Abby learns how to deal with desire, disappointment, and snobbery all the while, deciding to do the right thing. Abby’s love for Glory is contagious. This book is an easy read to a grade schooler, who will understand Abby and new readers will become immersed in this book. There is so much to love in these pages and my favorite book from Susan Count. Susan Horton
This is a wonderful and charming book that will appeal to middle-grade kids - particularly girls. It is a good story, well told. I would love to give the author my suggestions and critique, however, I literally have nothing to add! Ms. Count's writing is appropriate and nicely presented. The illustrations are excellent. Both author and illustrator are to be commended.
"Abby's Pony Love" is a thought-provoking book that will delight young girls who love horses as well as any child who has a passion for something they can't quite get ahold of. Lots of life lessons here: accepting what one cannot change, setting goals, understanding others, and how determination and hard work pay off. And because of these lessons, this would make a good book for child and parent to each read separately so the lessons could be discussed afterward. A very enjoyable read, well-written for the intended audience.
The title and cover art would have encouraged me to buy this book. The writing style and rhythm are very comfortable. The story is exciting and enjoyable. The storyline is great for a child's book. The storyline provides several lessons for children to learn throughout the book. I also liked the ending. B.R.A.G. Medallion Award
So many things I just loved about this book. It is so relatable for any young girl with a love of horses. The experience Abby had with wanting a horse so desperately mirrored my own sister's experience as a young girl. I could almost smell the barn as I read this engaging book. The glossary, horse diagram and recipe were all a wonderful treat at the end. I'll definitely share this book along with your other published books with the young people in my life.
I could see many kids picking up this book (girls especially!) A sweet story!
Angel Book Awards/Faith & Fellowship
https://www.themysteryofwriting.com/2...
Review — Abby’s Pony Love
Little girls love horses and Abby is no exception. Unlike the wealthy kids at the nearby stables, with parents who can buy them ponies and pay for lessons, Abby has to pursue her love of horses on her own. Abby’s parents my not have the means to buy her a horse, but they do support her in other ways, allowing her to take on a job at the local stables. But once there, Abby falls in love with someone else’s horse, and working around these beautiful animals is no longer enough.
Secretly naming the palomino mare Glory, Abby overlooks all the pony’s antics, of which there are many, believing her to be the most amazing horse in the world. Something every little girl needs, and every horse should have.
Unfortunately, life at the barn isn’t simple. If Glory (named Starlet by her owner) doesn’t behave, she may have to move to another stables. Or worse yet, the real owner may decide she’s too much trouble, and sell her to someone else. Someone who will take Glory far away where Abby will never see her again.
Abby desperately searches for a solution. She wants nothing else in life but to make Glory her own. But how can she possibly earn enough money to buy her dream horse? And what should she do about Glory’s owner? A girl she wants to see fail, and yet needs at the same time.
A sweet tale about a girl’s love for horses, working hard to achieve a goal, and finding solutions to difficult problems, Abby’s Pony Love is a terrific read. It’s perfect for young girls who understand the dream of being owned by a horse, and parents who remember what it feels like to want something with their whole heart.
My golden boy Jasper approves. Elena Hartwell
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Abby’s Pony Love by Susan Count ~ Spotlight
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https://www.themysteryofwriting.com/2022/09/26/abbys-pony-love-middle-grade-review/
KEYWORDS
- Faith-spiritual,
- Animals, Horses,
- Life Lessons,
- Great for Gifting,
- For Elementary School Readers,
- For Middle School Readers, Middle Grade,
- Chapter Book,
- Part of a Series,
- Horse Books for Girls 8-12,
THEME
Abby’s Pony Love by Susan Count is a coming-of-age, middle-grade novel that is book one in the Dream Pony Riders Series about riding ponies. Parents of readers, age 8 -12, appreciate the life lessons teaching the importance of hard work, faith, compassion, overcoming jealousy, and lasting friendships. The story promotes self-reliance in a page turning, joyful narrative.
- Working hard,
- Overcoming jealousy,
- Learning to be happy for others,
- Creating friendships with those you didn't think you had a lot in common with.
- Valuable life lessons
- Compassion,
- Respect,
- Equestrian,
- Horse Riding,
- Coming of Age.
Library of Congress Control Number: 2021906952
- Identifiers: LCCN 2021906952 | ISBN 9781952371042 (hardcover) | ISBN
- 9781952371035 (pbk.) | ISBN 9781952371028 (ebook)
- Subjects: LCSH: Ponies — Juvenile fiction. | Emotions — Juvenile fiction. |
- Perseverance (Ethics) — Juvenile fiction. | Friendship — Juvenile fiction. |
- Stables — Juvenile fiction. | BISAC: JUVENILE FICTION / Animals / Horses.
- | JUVENILE FICTION / Social Themes / Friendship. | JUVENILE FICTION /
- Sports & Recreation / Equestrian.
- Classification: LCC PZ7.1 C68 A23 2022 | DDC [Fic]—dc22
- LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2021906952Dedication
