In John Steinbeck’s The Red Pony, we are transported to another time and place, a simpler time. This is a story about growing up and about family. The story is told from the prospective of a young boy named Jody Tiflin. He lives on a ranch in California with his mother and father and a ranch hand that he idolizes named Bill Buck. We see their lives in four sub-stores; the boys first pony, the visit of an old man who grew up near their ranch, the breeding of the family horse, and the visit of Jody’s grandfather.

Steinbeck’s simple clear writing style paints a picture so clear and strong, it is hard to believe you are not there in the story with his characters. One of the recurring themes of the book is change and loss. We experience this as Jody grows up, gets more responsibility, and as his idealized feelings about Billy change. We also see this in the life of the paisano in story two. He grew up on the families ranch before they lived there. His life is over; his childhood home lies in ruins. Most powerfully we see it in the last story, where Jody’s grandfather revels in a bygone age. He was part of the great crossing of the continent, but no one seams to care anymore.

This is a sad story, it reminds us that our lives change, evolve, over time. Those things we cherish pass away; leaving an emptiness that yearns to be filled. The Red Pony is a timeless story, even though it is set in the distant past its message is familiar to readers of any time. ( )

had to read this in 6th grade. despised it. deplorable novel. was never a huge horse fan. ( )

John Steinbeck's book about a boy and his first pony. I was truly drawn into this book from the beginning when Jody is given a red pony. He takes wonderful care of the pony, Gabilan, and is worried when ever anything could possibly hurt Gabilan.
Jody's father is a man that does not like to show weakness or emotions. Billy Buck is the worker that helps on their farm. Billy teaches Jody how to train the pony with the bridle, halter etc.
I love horses and enjoyed reading about the boy training his horse, and the birth of a colt. In the first chapter I was surprised as to the loss the boy had to deal with after just a short time with Gabilan. ( )

Another one of Steinbeck's most classic books. Sets a beautiful picture of small farm life in the Salinas Valley. Emphasizes the reality of life and death on the farm. Some would say it is depressing, but it doesn't have to be. It celebrates both the life and the death. The main character Jody is a interesting little boy and Steinbeck does a great job capturing the stories from a child's perspective (although it is still told from the omniscient narrator's perspective). A great short read! ( )

Depression sets in from the first page, beware! I failed to find the deeper meaning in this novella, so I call it "pointless" until I understand why Steinbeck would put his readers through this. ( )