The Saddest Pony

Pony Pals #18

by Jeanne Betancourt, Paul Bachem (Illustrations)

Pam stops at a run-down farmhouse while riding Lightning and learns the story of an elderly couple and their old pony, from whom the Pony Pals learn about helping those less fortunate. Original.

Genres: Horses, Animals, Fiction, Childrens, Contemporary

96 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1998

About the author

When I was growing up I never thought of being an author. I was a terrible speller and didn't want to write any more than I had to. I wanted to be a tap dancer when I grew up. After a few years of teaching junior high and high school, I wrote my first novel. It was a surprise to discover that I liked making up stories and writing them down. I liked it so much that eventually I stopped teaching and became a fulltime writer.

Besides novels for children and young adults, I've also told stories by writing scripts for television and the movies.

I live on the top floor of a sixteen-story building near the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. From my apartment I have a view of Manhattan that includes the Empire State Building and the Plaza Hotel. In my free time I draw, paint, and read. I still love to dance.

Some people think that a writer's life is lonely. But when I'm writing a story I don't feel lonely because I am actively involved with lots of interesting people – the characters in my books. I love knowing that some day readers will get to know these characters, too. If you are one of my readers I hope you have as much enjoyment in reading my stories as I have writing them.

Reviews

[Samantha · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good book, showing that sometimes there's more to the situation than what meets the eye, and you should be careful not to judge people too early.

I did take a little bit of an issue with the Pony Pals wanting to go to the police, but saying they needed more evidence first. I've called the police twice on a former roommate for pot, and they didn't need me to gather any evidence. They just came and checked the situation out. So, it's odd the girls think they need more evidence when all the police have to do is just show up, and then they could see the evidence for themselves. Also, I get the pony needs immediate help, but it's odd they talk about needing more evidence while cleaning up and caring for the pony, thus destroying evidence.

Aside from that issue, though, it was a good book.

[Katt Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like how the Pony Pals see someone in trouble and take the time to figure out the best way to help. OK, they make mistakes. I really would advise against the snooping they did, going onto someone else's property. Yeah, it worked out in the end but they got lucky. Kids, if you're reading this book, please take note of that fact, ok?

But getting the community involved and going to someone who can help even though the Quinns hadn't wanted them to, was the right thing to do. Kudos to them for making the right decision in that regard.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

read them all

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This started as a very sad book, but picked up speed and attitude very quickly. Actually, the story moved so well, I never put the book down until I finished it.

[Janice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Accelerated Reading Level 3.5, AR Points 1.0

I finished reading all of the Pony Pals Series today. We do not own the complete set, but I have enjoyed reading them. The are very good books.

[Alexandra Lindner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the series!!