Magic Hoofbeats: Horse Tales from Many Lands

Author: Josepha Sherman
Illustrated by: Linda S. Wingerter
Hardcover: 80 page(s)
Age Range: 4 - 10

Book Description:

Some of them can talk, others can fly; some can gallop faster than the wind, others can make themselves invisible - but whatever their special gifts, all of the horses and ponies in these stories are truly amazing. Each and every one of them knows just how to help its rider get out of trouble, and each of them will do everything it can to ensure that good triumphs over evil. Along the way, the adventures they have with their riders will transport you to places you have never dreamed of. In addition to its dazzling illustrations and spellbinding stories, Magic Hoofbeats also includes fascinating information about the different breeds of horse that live in the countries from which these tales are taken. So start reading - and swing into the saddle!

- Book of the Year 2004 Gold Award, ForeWord Magazine

School Library Journal
A rich combination of scholarly but age-appropriate historical information and well-told story, this hybrid features eight tales about magical talking horses. The fascinating note that prefaces each story tells of the origins and distinguishing features of horses, such as the loyal Marwari of Northern India, the pintos of the Pawnee, or the sturdy "Iron Horses" of Canada. Tales that follow include Russia's "The Little Humpbacked Horse" and some lesser-known ones, such as the Iranian "Colt Qeytas" and the Basque "The White Mare." While seven of the tales feature boys who find a wife, the girls are strong, independent, and active in realizing their desires as well. A bare-bones list of sources is included. Acrylic paintings in warm blues and browns feature stylized portrait ovals, framed as if in ancient parchment, of each horse followed by romantic and dramatic illustrations of scenes from the story. The book satisfies readers on both informative and imaginative levels, and will no doubt gallop off the shelves when horse lovers discover it.

Booklist
Hoofbeats comprises short selections about horses from around the globe, each introduced with a brief description of a horse breed particular to the tale's culture. In each story, horses play a magical role as rescuers, protectors, and advisors for the humans in their lives. A full list of source notes concludes this lively, multicultural collection, which is beautifully illustrated with Wingerter's fanciful acrylic artwork. Teachers will want this for reading aloud or inspiring students to create their own folktale compilations.