Little Vic

I'm glad I read this based on prior positive experience with both author and illustrator (and not from reviews). Since the fact that Pony is 'colored' isn't revealed until 2/3 through, the reviews that mention it derail Gates' strategy. Gates' wanted readers to get to know Pony as a person, undefined by his race, and thereby if any had parents like Hill's, they'd have a chance to learn that they don't need to think like their racist parents. Yes, a little earnest, a little implausible, but that's because it was by Gates ([b:Blue Willow|16104058|Blue Willow|Doris Gates|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1350998229l/16104058._SX50_.jpg|1285813], etc.) and written in that era when children's authors and show more librarians were motivated to 'improve the minds' of the youth they 'served.'

This is a substantial book for younger readers - not as intimidating (as I found) [b:The Black Stallion|272895|The Black Stallion (The Black Stallion, #1)|Walter Farley|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1173319066l/272895._SX50_.jpg|671846], for example. Engaging; I read it in one sitting. The drawings were more free, more sketchy, than Seredy's more famous work ([b:The Good Master|258038|The Good Master |Kate Seredy|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1386921616l/258038._SY75_.jpg|250092], etc.) but still wonderful, especially for horse lovers but for any student who wants to learn how to portray strength and grace. I would absolutely have adored this book when I was a child and definitely want to continue to read more by both author and illustrator, if I can find them. show less

This is the engaging story of Pony Rivers, a young man who wants to spend his life with horses, and the misunderstood racehorse that he follows from one owner to the next, across the country.

I loved this when I first read it, at age 10 or so, and enjoyed it again on a reread yesterday. This story of love, redemption, and acceptance is suitable for all ages. Recommended.