Pony fiction is a genre in children’s literature. It includes equestrian novels for young readers. Anna Sewell, author of the timeless classic “Black Beauty”, introduced the genre.
Sewell was the first author to write a story from the perspective of a horse and it marked the beginning of pony fiction. Published in 1877, “Black Beauty is an autobiographical account of a horse from youth to retirement. Having spent carefree days as a foal on an English farm with his mother, life becomes for the horse when he is roped in to pull cabs on the streets of London. Each short chapter recounts an incident in Black Beauty’s life imparting a lesson on kindness, sympathy, and better treatment of horses. It also highlights the hardships of cab drivers in London. Finally, the horse retires happily to the hard countryside.
The book helped kick off the animal rights movement and recommended humane treatment of animals used for transport.
POPULAR PONY FICTION BOOKS
- Rosie’s Magic Horse”: Written by Russell Hoban and illustrated by Quentin Blake, this story follows the adventures of young Rosie and her horse made from ice cream sticks, Stickerino.
- “Hello, Horse”: This book by Vivian French and illustrated by Catherine Rayner introduces young children to Shannon, a friendly bay mare, and familiarises readers with these large, beautiful creatures.
- The Wish Pony”: In this heartwarming story, a young Ruby meets the mysterious Magda, who gives her a special gift of a little glass horse, that might just be a bit magical. The book perfectly captures the everyday life and the magic of childhood.
- “Spud and Charli”: Author Samantha Wheelers “Spud and Charli” is about a girl Charli, who loves horses and is looking forward to attending riding camp. But instead of the beautiful palomino Razz horse that she wants. Charli gets stuck riding the massive retired racehorse Spud.
- “Warhorse”: Written by Michael Morpurgo, this book tells the story of Joey, a beautiful bay-red foal, who is sold to the army and thrust into the midst of the war on the Western Front. With his officer, he charges toward the enemy, witnessing the horror of the battles in France.
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