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The Christmas Pony
Eight-year-old Lucy Turnbull knew better than to wish for a pony that Christmas in 1937. Her mother had assured her in no uncertain terms that asking for a pony was the same as asking for the moon. Besides, the only extra mouths they needed at their boarding house were the paying kind. But when an interesting pair of strangers comes to town, Lucy starts to believe her Christmas wishes might just come true after all.
The queen of the Christmas novel, Melody Carlson pens another magical tale of expectation and excitement as one little girl dreams big and the impossible becomes possible.
The queen of the Christmas novel, Melody Carlson pens another magical tale of expectation and excitement as one little girl dreams big and the impossible becomes possible.
169 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2012
181 people are currently reading
851 people want to read
About the author
Melody Carlson
418 books3,240 followersMelody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 225 reviews
December 28, 2020
Despite the title, this really isn’t a story about a pony, so if you’re hoping for a nice horse story, you’ll be disappointed. It’s more of a mild romance as seen through the eyes of an 8 year old. It’s a sweet and gentle Christmas romance with good character development and the requisite happy ending. Even though that’s why I read this holiday book, I was a bit put off by everything working out just so in the end. It was all just a bit too unbelievable for me, especially considering the time period (1937). It was a pleasant read, but not one I’m likely to read again, as for me it didn’t have the heart-warming appeal I like to feel in a Christmas read. 2.5 stars
December 12, 2018
3.5 stars. Or maybe 3.75 stars.
I really enjoyed this story (once I figured out that George wasn't 18–why I thought he was 18, I'm not sure). Lucy was so sweet, and Grandma and Mama were real. The setting was well done. I could picture the small town, the country farmhouse, and even the old car.
Though not strongly Christian like some books, it was Christian in a sense that there were prayers, going to church and even a good reminder of how Christ humbled Himself when He came and was born to a poor family.
The little girl isn't sure if she believe's in Santa Claus or not, and Veronica wasn't very nice (to say the least), but it was a good story.
I think I'm going to want to read this book again another year.
I really enjoyed this story (once I figured out that George wasn't 18–why I thought he was 18, I'm not sure). Lucy was so sweet, and Grandma and Mama were real. The setting was well done. I could picture the small town, the country farmhouse, and even the old car.
Though not strongly Christian like some books, it was Christian in a sense that there were prayers, going to church and even a good reminder of how Christ humbled Himself when He came and was born to a poor family.
The little girl isn't sure if she believe's in Santa Claus or not, and Veronica wasn't very nice (to say the least), but it was a good story.
I think I'm going to want to read this book again another year.
December 28, 2020
Not bad, but I skimmed. I wasn’t quite feeling the book and it ended exactly how I figured it would. It won’t damage your Christmas cheer and it’s a quick read. 3, I hope you all had a good Christmas, stars.
November 28, 2012
I absolutely love stories written from the perspective of a child, and 8-yr-old Lucy Turnbull is as precious as they come! "The Christmas Pony" is chock-full of charm, and viewing life through Lucy's eyes reveals a heart-warming story of faith and hope and love. Within pages of beginning the story, I was swept up into her innocence and naivety as she encounters 2 strangers who arrive into town, strangers who she soon convinces to move into her mother's boardinghouse. As she discovers more and more about the newcomers, she also discovers more about herself and her family, and she realizes that though she wishes more than anything for a pony, what she most wishes for is her mother to smile again.
Melody Carlson absolutely lives up to her award-winning reputation with her latest Christmas offering, with wonderful characterization and a story that pleases in every way. Though the story may seem somewhat predictable, predictable is just what's needed when you are getting ready for Christmas and for the warm feelings that you hope will arrive along with your favorite songs and snowy weather. I put down the book feeling like I was ready for the Christmas season to arrive!
I highly recommend this story for anyone looking for a cozy book to keep them company this season. 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
Melody Carlson absolutely lives up to her award-winning reputation with her latest Christmas offering, with wonderful characterization and a story that pleases in every way. Though the story may seem somewhat predictable, predictable is just what's needed when you are getting ready for Christmas and for the warm feelings that you hope will arrive along with your favorite songs and snowy weather. I put down the book feeling like I was ready for the Christmas season to arrive!
I highly recommend this story for anyone looking for a cozy book to keep them company this season. 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
November 23, 2012
Melody Carlson’s The Christmas Pony features old-fashioned holiday fun, a sweet romance, and an adorable heroine named Lucy Turnbull.
In this charming novella, eight-year-old Lucy shows the adults around her the power of childlike faith and even does a little match-making along the way. Think The House Without a Christmas Tree, Holiday Affair, or Miracle on 34th Street—throw in some hot cocoa in front of the wood stove—and you’ll be in just the right mood to enjoy this story.
Here’s the set up: Lucy lives with her widowed mother and grandmother in Maple Grove, Arizona. It’s 1937, and times are hard. Lucy’s mama, Miriam, knits socks to trade for groceries and takes in laundry and borders to get by. Though Lucy knows they can’t afford one more mouth to feed, she can’t help but pray for a pony of her own. However, she also asks for something special for her mama . . .
When Lucy corrals two borders to rent rooms for the Christmas holiday, all she’s hoping for is extra money to convince Mama they can feed a pony. But she and her mama receive so much more. I loved this heart-warming story! It’s sure to become a classic!
All Melody Carlson’s Christmas novellas are sweet, satisfying, and perfect for gift-giving. This one is my favorite so far. Don’t miss it! You can purchase The Christmas Pony at this link.
In this charming novella, eight-year-old Lucy shows the adults around her the power of childlike faith and even does a little match-making along the way. Think The House Without a Christmas Tree, Holiday Affair, or Miracle on 34th Street—throw in some hot cocoa in front of the wood stove—and you’ll be in just the right mood to enjoy this story.
Here’s the set up: Lucy lives with her widowed mother and grandmother in Maple Grove, Arizona. It’s 1937, and times are hard. Lucy’s mama, Miriam, knits socks to trade for groceries and takes in laundry and borders to get by. Though Lucy knows they can’t afford one more mouth to feed, she can’t help but pray for a pony of her own. However, she also asks for something special for her mama . . .
“‘Please, dear God,’ she said finally, ‘help Mama to find her smile again.’ Lucy could remember when Mama had the prettiest smile ever. Back when Daddy was still alive. But like Lucy’s memories of her father, Mama’s smile had faded some over the last few years. If Lucy couldn’t have a pony for Christmas, she’d settle for Mama’s smile instead.”
When Lucy corrals two borders to rent rooms for the Christmas holiday, all she’s hoping for is extra money to convince Mama they can feed a pony. But she and her mama receive so much more. I loved this heart-warming story! It’s sure to become a classic!
All Melody Carlson’s Christmas novellas are sweet, satisfying, and perfect for gift-giving. This one is my favorite so far. Don’t miss it! You can purchase The Christmas Pony at this link.
December 26, 2019
Fun, but nothing brilliant--a bit stereotypical. Set in 1937, the 8 year old protagonist longs for a pony and to see her widowed mother smile again as well as boarders. She meets George and Veronica stranded in town, so they board with her mother, grandmother and her while they wait for George's car to be repaired and later for the snow to melt. I am in between 2 and 3 stars on this one.
December 22, 2017
I wanted a fast, cozy, Christmas-y read, and this fit the bill for that. It was book candy. That’s all.
Unfortunately, it wasn’t even GOOD book candy. In candy terms, it was like the Bit O’Honeys and root beer barrels that get left in the bottom of the candy jar after the Jolly Ranchers and Werther’s are gone.
It had a simplistic, clunky writing style that would have flowed better in first person to match the narrative voice of the little girl. And for a book with “pony” in the title, there was pretty much no pony in this book. And the pony is why I wanted to read it. *pout*
I also couldn’t help but notice that, barring Lucy and her family, EVERY SINGLE LAST WOMAN/FEMALE IN THIS BOOK WAS JUST AWFUL. It just got to be ridiculous after a while. I can usually roll my eyes and keep going, but after a while, I just started to feel kind of attacked.
Veronica = worldly, petty diva who only cares for herself
Helen Krausner = spoiled rotten brat
Mrs. Babcock = nasty control freak battle axe
Mrs. Dorchester = high-maintenance fussbudget (also, completely unnecessary - she and her personality-devoid husband serve zero purpose in this story)
Even Mama wasn’t totally safe. Mama’s beauty is praised repeatedly, but the stronger side of her life is kind of ignored (such as running a farm and boarding house and caring for her young daughter after the death of her husband - especially in 1937, you had to be tough to do that). Would have been nice to key in on that instead of bring up how pretty she is on multiple occasions and point out that she’s not like Veronica.
Might make a nice little Hallmark movie for people who enjoy this sort of thing, but it’s not really my shtick. I just wanted more pony, I guess. Not bitter or anything that he’s probably on a grand total of 10 pages in this whole story. Not bitter at all.
Why not just call it “The Christmas Husband for Mama” and set up realistic expectations, huh? Or “The Christmas Not-As-Much-Pony-As-One-Might-Expect”?
Oh right, not bitter.
Unfortunately, it wasn’t even GOOD book candy. In candy terms, it was like the Bit O’Honeys and root beer barrels that get left in the bottom of the candy jar after the Jolly Ranchers and Werther’s are gone.
It had a simplistic, clunky writing style that would have flowed better in first person to match the narrative voice of the little girl. And for a book with “pony” in the title, there was pretty much no pony in this book. And the pony is why I wanted to read it. *pout*
I also couldn’t help but notice that, barring Lucy and her family, EVERY SINGLE LAST WOMAN/FEMALE IN THIS BOOK WAS JUST AWFUL. It just got to be ridiculous after a while. I can usually roll my eyes and keep going, but after a while, I just started to feel kind of attacked.
Veronica = worldly, petty diva who only cares for herself
Helen Krausner = spoiled rotten brat
Mrs. Babcock = nasty control freak battle axe
Mrs. Dorchester = high-maintenance fussbudget (also, completely unnecessary - she and her personality-devoid husband serve zero purpose in this story)
Even Mama wasn’t totally safe. Mama’s beauty is praised repeatedly, but the stronger side of her life is kind of ignored (such as running a farm and boarding house and caring for her young daughter after the death of her husband - especially in 1937, you had to be tough to do that). Would have been nice to key in on that instead of bring up how pretty she is on multiple occasions and point out that she’s not like Veronica.
Might make a nice little Hallmark movie for people who enjoy this sort of thing, but it’s not really my shtick. I just wanted more pony, I guess. Not bitter or anything that he’s probably on a grand total of 10 pages in this whole story. Not bitter at all.
Why not just call it “The Christmas Husband for Mama” and set up realistic expectations, huh? Or “The Christmas Not-As-Much-Pony-As-One-Might-Expect”?
Oh right, not bitter.
November 26, 2012
I have been a fan of Melody Carlson forever, and one of the reasons is because whatever she writes, whether its a story about teens, or a Christmas story I always wind up feeling like I got more than just a story. Instead she always takes me on a journey that makes me feel just a bit better for having read the story.
The year is 1937, and all eight year old Lucy Turnbull wants for Christmas is a pony,but she is pretty sure it's a wish that won't come true. After all not only does her mother caution her about making such a lofty wish, but she also learned from Tommy Farley that Santa was only make believe. So instead of just praying for a pony,she prays for the food that the pony will need to eat. She also prays that boarders will come along and rent the upstairs bedrooms, and that her momma will find her smile again.
What a touching story. There was so many things that I enjoyed about this story. First of all I felt like the author captured the Depression era very well. I also loved Lucy and her wish for a pony, something so many little girls, or those of us who were once little girls, can certainly relate to. Lucy's character was so very easy to like, and it was so nice to see how she grew as the story progressed. While this was just a short story, it isn't short on emotion or character. This is a keeper for my shelf, one that I will reread each Christmas season.
A great Christmas story that's perfect for anyone from eight to eighty.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
The year is 1937, and all eight year old Lucy Turnbull wants for Christmas is a pony,but she is pretty sure it's a wish that won't come true. After all not only does her mother caution her about making such a lofty wish, but she also learned from Tommy Farley that Santa was only make believe. So instead of just praying for a pony,she prays for the food that the pony will need to eat. She also prays that boarders will come along and rent the upstairs bedrooms, and that her momma will find her smile again.
What a touching story. There was so many things that I enjoyed about this story. First of all I felt like the author captured the Depression era very well. I also loved Lucy and her wish for a pony, something so many little girls, or those of us who were once little girls, can certainly relate to. Lucy's character was so very easy to like, and it was so nice to see how she grew as the story progressed. While this was just a short story, it isn't short on emotion or character. This is a keeper for my shelf, one that I will reread each Christmas season.
A great Christmas story that's perfect for anyone from eight to eighty.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2012
I am starting to enjoy the darker, cooler evenings with a good book! I have dived into Christmas books lately and it is certainly getting me in the spirit. I have read several books by Melody Carlson, she has written a few Christmas ones that I have enjoyed as well. Her latest Christmas novella is The Christmas Pony, set in 1937.
Young Lucy lives with her Mother and Grandmother and run a boarding house in their rural town. Money is very tight since Lucy's father has passed on, but Lucy still desires a pony for Christmas. The neighbor has one for sale, Smokey, and she would love to have him. She prays for a pony, for boarders to make some money, and for her Mother's smile to return.
Picture movies are all the rage, and into town lands a gal named Veronica who is sure to make it big in Hollywood if she can get there. George's car is at the repair shop so Lucy's prayer for boarders is answered.
Will God answer her other prayers?
This was an easy read, one you can just pick up in an afternoon and finish. Cute, and sweet as Lucy tells the story. I love the books of yesteryear and of Christmas before it became all of the chaos and materialism that it is today. Melody Carlson did a great job showing the true spirit of Christmas in her book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Young Lucy lives with her Mother and Grandmother and run a boarding house in their rural town. Money is very tight since Lucy's father has passed on, but Lucy still desires a pony for Christmas. The neighbor has one for sale, Smokey, and she would love to have him. She prays for a pony, for boarders to make some money, and for her Mother's smile to return.
Picture movies are all the rage, and into town lands a gal named Veronica who is sure to make it big in Hollywood if she can get there. George's car is at the repair shop so Lucy's prayer for boarders is answered.
Will God answer her other prayers?
This was an easy read, one you can just pick up in an afternoon and finish. Cute, and sweet as Lucy tells the story. I love the books of yesteryear and of Christmas before it became all of the chaos and materialism that it is today. Melody Carlson did a great job showing the true spirit of Christmas in her book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2012
A sweet little Christmas story to fall in love with - it's 1937 and 8 year old Lucy wants a pony for Christmas, but times are hard, and her mama - a young widow - has to take in boarders to barely make ends meet. Grandma helps with the cooking and Lucy does a lot of chores on the neglected farm. When she walks into town to do the weekly shopping, Lucy comes across two stranded motorists. Asking them to stay at her farmhouse and fill the rooms while their car is repaired, Lucy falls in love with the exotic woman and George, her handsome companion. With one prayer answered for paying boarders, Lucy gives up her wish for a pony and prays instead for her Mama's smile to come back.
I love Melody's little Christmas books - this gem is told from Lucy's perspective and is so heartwarming and hopeful. Read with a snuggly blanket and a hot cup of tea!
I love Melody's little Christmas books - this gem is told from Lucy's perspective and is so heartwarming and hopeful. Read with a snuggly blanket and a hot cup of tea!
December 28, 2015
It's 1937, times are tough, but eight year old Lucy still believes in prayer and Christmas miracles. Her father has died, and her mother and grandmother take in boarders and laundry to make ends meet. Lucy longs for a pony, but more than that she yearns to see her mother smiling and happy. When two unlikely boarders come to stay just before Christmas, their peaceful home becomes a bit more interesting. Lucy is taken in by the beauty of the glamorous Veronica and the kindness of George. Do they hold the answers to Lucy's yearnings?
I fell in love with Lucy's big heart and her belief that God will answer her prayers.
A quick, inspiring Christmas story that will touch your heart.
I fell in love with Lucy's big heart and her belief that God will answer her prayers.
A quick, inspiring Christmas story that will touch your heart.
November 27, 2022
Sweet old fashioned Christmas story. I like a historical setting in Christmas books. Pretty simple story line. Quick read with a happy ending. I liked the perspective on the little girl being casted as a lowly sheep.
November 24, 2015
Wonderful, sweet Christmas story!!!
January 11, 2015
A cute little story about hopes and wishes and happy endings! :)
December 26, 2018
Cute, but simple and predictable. Like a Hallmark movie.
January 8, 2024
It was okay. Set in 1937, POV of an eight year old girl, predicable, yet rather unbelievable. A quick Christmas read, if that’s what you’re looking for. It’s more about the struggles of a widow & her daughter and the grandmother who have to take in boarders to get by. Not too much about the pony.
Favorite quote: “With more guests in the house, including the dingdong fussbudget and the rather spoiled almost-actress, life became noisier and busier than ever.”
Favorite quote: “With more guests in the house, including the dingdong fussbudget and the rather spoiled almost-actress, life became noisier and busier than ever.”
January 11, 2021
Heartwarming, short book, perfect for a Christmas read.
December 25, 2018
I was expecting a cliché Christmas horse story, and instead I got a cliché Christmas romance. Still a decent book, just majorly disappointing that the titular pony, Smokey, is only mentioned a few dozen times and appears in just three scenes.
December 13, 2024
The Christmas Pony
is a lovely heartwarming story about eight-year-old Lucy’s family and the guests they have for Christmas one year.
We see most of the story through Lucy’s eyes, but along the way we get to know her mother, grandmother, and two guests who board with them when their car breaks down close to the town they live by. The setting is Great Depression mountaintop Arizona, a place that is close to nothing big except the hearts of its people. Lucy’s family is struggling to make ends meet and the arrival of boarders close to Christmas is an answer to prayer. Boarders aren’t the only thing Lucy asks for in her prayers, however: she also asks for a pony.
In the days that follow, Lucy and her family get to know their guests, and we get to know them and their friends in town. These guests end up being an answer to prayer in more ways than one – slowly, a romance begins to sprout, and the ending is filled with much warmth and hope.
The Verdict:
The Christmas Pony isn’t terribly deep or exciting, but it is good and an easy winter read. The story of Christ’s birth is told, and a character connects this to a solid lesson on humility. The characters are interesting – even the one who no one (reader included!) really liked much. I highly recommend this book for readers who enjoy historical fiction and are looking for a Christmas story where romance is not one of the primary focuses (there is a little on side between adult characters, but it isn’t nearly as prominent as in a lot of books set around Christmas). Five solid stars!
This review and additional bookish content originally posted on my blog, Reviews From the Stacks.
We see most of the story through Lucy’s eyes, but along the way we get to know her mother, grandmother, and two guests who board with them when their car breaks down close to the town they live by. The setting is Great Depression mountaintop Arizona, a place that is close to nothing big except the hearts of its people. Lucy’s family is struggling to make ends meet and the arrival of boarders close to Christmas is an answer to prayer. Boarders aren’t the only thing Lucy asks for in her prayers, however: she also asks for a pony.
In the days that follow, Lucy and her family get to know their guests, and we get to know them and their friends in town. These guests end up being an answer to prayer in more ways than one – slowly, a romance begins to sprout, and the ending is filled with much warmth and hope.
The Verdict:
The Christmas Pony isn’t terribly deep or exciting, but it is good and an easy winter read. The story of Christ’s birth is told, and a character connects this to a solid lesson on humility. The characters are interesting – even the one who no one (reader included!) really liked much. I highly recommend this book for readers who enjoy historical fiction and are looking for a Christmas story where romance is not one of the primary focuses (there is a little on side between adult characters, but it isn’t nearly as prominent as in a lot of books set around Christmas). Five solid stars!
This review and additional bookish content originally posted on my blog, Reviews From the Stacks.
November 23, 2012
Story Description:
Baker Publishing Group|September 1, 2012|Hardcover|ISBN: 978-0-8007-1927-2
Eight-year-old Lucy Turnbull knew better than to wish for a pony that Christmas in 1937. Her mother had assured her in no uncertain terms that asking for a pony was the same as asking for the moon. Besides, the only extra mouths they needed at their boarding house were the paying kind. But when an interesting pair of strangers comes to town, Lucy starts to believe her Christmas wishes might just come true after all.
The queen of the Christmas novel, Melody Carlson pens another magical tale of expectation and excitement as one little girl dreams big and the impossible becomes possible.
My Review:
It is December 1937 and eight-year-old, Lucy Turnbull knew better than to wish for a pony for Christmas. Gramma told her only rich people could afford such luxuries as that. A neighbour, Mr. Greenberg was selling or trading a pony named, Smoky who Lucy had admired for years and had run home to tell her Mom and Gramma. But disappointingly, Mama told her she could barely keep food on the table for themselves. Lucy knew Mama felt bad because she had two creases in her forehead which Lucy knew she was responsible for putting there. Mama ran a boarding house and suggested Lucy pray for “paying boarders” instead of a pony.
Lucy’s Daddy had passed away when she was five-years-old so Mama knit socks which the local store traded for groceries. Mama always stayed up late at night and could knit a whole sock in one night.
While in town doing some grocery shopping for Mama, Lucy ran into two strangers whose car had broken down and were looking for someplace to stay for a few days as the garage needed to order parts. Immediately Lucy told them about her house and how Mama had 3 rooms to rent and convinced them to come home with her. She knew Mama would be happy to have paying boarders. With paying boarders Lucy was still holding out hope that she would get the pony but sometimes we don’t always get what we wish for and sometimes we do.
Will Lucy get her pony? Will the boarders stay at Mama’s or will they consider it too far out of town?
This was a lovely and very cute Christmas story that I read in about an hour or so. At only 169 pages it was a quick read for an afternoon with a hot cup of tea. Melody Carlson always pens the nicest stories and this one was no different. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".
Baker Publishing Group|September 1, 2012|Hardcover|ISBN: 978-0-8007-1927-2
Eight-year-old Lucy Turnbull knew better than to wish for a pony that Christmas in 1937. Her mother had assured her in no uncertain terms that asking for a pony was the same as asking for the moon. Besides, the only extra mouths they needed at their boarding house were the paying kind. But when an interesting pair of strangers comes to town, Lucy starts to believe her Christmas wishes might just come true after all.
The queen of the Christmas novel, Melody Carlson pens another magical tale of expectation and excitement as one little girl dreams big and the impossible becomes possible.
My Review:
It is December 1937 and eight-year-old, Lucy Turnbull knew better than to wish for a pony for Christmas. Gramma told her only rich people could afford such luxuries as that. A neighbour, Mr. Greenberg was selling or trading a pony named, Smoky who Lucy had admired for years and had run home to tell her Mom and Gramma. But disappointingly, Mama told her she could barely keep food on the table for themselves. Lucy knew Mama felt bad because she had two creases in her forehead which Lucy knew she was responsible for putting there. Mama ran a boarding house and suggested Lucy pray for “paying boarders” instead of a pony.
Lucy’s Daddy had passed away when she was five-years-old so Mama knit socks which the local store traded for groceries. Mama always stayed up late at night and could knit a whole sock in one night.
While in town doing some grocery shopping for Mama, Lucy ran into two strangers whose car had broken down and were looking for someplace to stay for a few days as the garage needed to order parts. Immediately Lucy told them about her house and how Mama had 3 rooms to rent and convinced them to come home with her. She knew Mama would be happy to have paying boarders. With paying boarders Lucy was still holding out hope that she would get the pony but sometimes we don’t always get what we wish for and sometimes we do.
Will Lucy get her pony? Will the boarders stay at Mama’s or will they consider it too far out of town?
This was a lovely and very cute Christmas story that I read in about an hour or so. At only 169 pages it was a quick read for an afternoon with a hot cup of tea. Melody Carlson always pens the nicest stories and this one was no different. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".
November 14, 2012
I have come to think of reading Ms. Carlson's Christmas books as a tradition and while I have to read them a little early for me in the season, they never fail to bring me good cheer and warm feelings when I read one of them. The Christmas Pony is no exception, in fact I think it's one of her best of the last three years that I have been reading.
The story focuses around a young girl who's family is making it for their small town after the great depression in 1937. All Lucy really wants for Christmas is the pony that is down the road that is for sale of trade, but she knows she probably won't get it. But that doesn't stop her for praying for it. Lucy lives with her Grandmother and widowed Mother and they take in boarders to make extra money so Lucy thinks it's magical when she happens to run into a beautiful woman and a well-dressed man in town that need a place to stay. And that's where the story and the magic start. Getting to know Lucy, George, Miriam and even annoying Veronica make the magic of this book. I adored George and his quiet wisdom and sweet ways with Lucy and Miriam.
Once you start reading this you won't want to put it down, and it's easy to read in an hour or so since it's under 200 pages. The magic of the Christmas season in the book will enthrall you and even though life isn't perfect for this little family you will learn to enjoy the little things right along with them. When I finished the book, I wanted to hug my little family, tell them I love them and carry the magic of The Christmas Pony with us right through Thanksgiving and into Advent and the Christmas season. Ms. Carlson captures the magic of the simple life, love and the spirit of giving so perfectly that you can't help closing this book with a smile on your face even if you are facing troubles in your life.
So I encourage you to grab this book, it's a quick read. It's uplifting, it's romantic, it's sweet. It's nice to see life through the eyes of a child and appreciate things that way. The Christmas Pony is a lovely book that I may just have to read again before Christmas.
The story focuses around a young girl who's family is making it for their small town after the great depression in 1937. All Lucy really wants for Christmas is the pony that is down the road that is for sale of trade, but she knows she probably won't get it. But that doesn't stop her for praying for it. Lucy lives with her Grandmother and widowed Mother and they take in boarders to make extra money so Lucy thinks it's magical when she happens to run into a beautiful woman and a well-dressed man in town that need a place to stay. And that's where the story and the magic start. Getting to know Lucy, George, Miriam and even annoying Veronica make the magic of this book. I adored George and his quiet wisdom and sweet ways with Lucy and Miriam.
Once you start reading this you won't want to put it down, and it's easy to read in an hour or so since it's under 200 pages. The magic of the Christmas season in the book will enthrall you and even though life isn't perfect for this little family you will learn to enjoy the little things right along with them. When I finished the book, I wanted to hug my little family, tell them I love them and carry the magic of The Christmas Pony with us right through Thanksgiving and into Advent and the Christmas season. Ms. Carlson captures the magic of the simple life, love and the spirit of giving so perfectly that you can't help closing this book with a smile on your face even if you are facing troubles in your life.
So I encourage you to grab this book, it's a quick read. It's uplifting, it's romantic, it's sweet. It's nice to see life through the eyes of a child and appreciate things that way. The Christmas Pony is a lovely book that I may just have to read again before Christmas.
November 16, 2012
The Christmas Pony
By Melody Carlson
Lucy Turnbull knows what she wants for Christmas, a pony. But both Mama and Grandma tell Lucy not to get her heart set on something that she can't have. But Lucy has her heart set on Smoky, a nearby pony that is for sale.
But Lucy knows that Smoky is an impossible dream, yet she prays that God will send her a pony, send them more boarders, and to give mama back her smile. Soon it appears that God is helping Lucy Christmas dream come true when they get two new boarders. Veronica and George are different from their normal boarders. Veronica is on her way to California, determined to become a movie star and George is always doing things to help Lucy and her mother with small tasks around the house.
But for reasons Lucy can't understand mama doesn't seem to like their new boarders; boarders who came in answer to Lucy's prayer. With God answering her prayer for new boarders answered, Lucy has a sliver of hope for the rest of her Christmas pray - a pony and mama's smile. But what will it take for mama to smile again? Will Lucy get the desire of her heart? Only time will time! The Christmas of 1937 is one Lucy won't soon forget.
The Christmas Pony is a sweet, timeless Christmas story that will leave you with a warm feeling in your heart!
I was provided a copy of this title by the publisher for the purpose of this review.
Available Sept 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
By Melody Carlson
Lucy Turnbull knows what she wants for Christmas, a pony. But both Mama and Grandma tell Lucy not to get her heart set on something that she can't have. But Lucy has her heart set on Smoky, a nearby pony that is for sale.
But Lucy knows that Smoky is an impossible dream, yet she prays that God will send her a pony, send them more boarders, and to give mama back her smile. Soon it appears that God is helping Lucy Christmas dream come true when they get two new boarders. Veronica and George are different from their normal boarders. Veronica is on her way to California, determined to become a movie star and George is always doing things to help Lucy and her mother with small tasks around the house.
But for reasons Lucy can't understand mama doesn't seem to like their new boarders; boarders who came in answer to Lucy's prayer. With God answering her prayer for new boarders answered, Lucy has a sliver of hope for the rest of her Christmas pray - a pony and mama's smile. But what will it take for mama to smile again? Will Lucy get the desire of her heart? Only time will time! The Christmas of 1937 is one Lucy won't soon forget.
The Christmas Pony is a sweet, timeless Christmas story that will leave you with a warm feeling in your heart!
I was provided a copy of this title by the publisher for the purpose of this review.
Available Sept 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
January 23, 2016
THE CHRISTMAS PONY by Melody Carlson has holiday warmth and down home charm.
Lucy Turnball wants nothing more than a pony for Christmas. But with money tight, her mother assures her she needs to be praying for boarders if they hope to enjoy Christmas at all. When two out-of-towners show up out of nowhere and need some place to stay, Lucy is amazed. If God could give them boarders during the holiday season, surely He can give her the adorable gray pony she’s wanted for so long. But soon, Lucy’s prayers for the future change.
When Lucy finds out George and Veronica are merely traveling partners, she begins to see George as husband material for her mother and father material for herself. Veronica is on her way to Hollywood to become a star and George has agreed to drive her there. But while Veronica gets antsy in the small no-nothing town and wants to get a move on it, George is charmed by the simple life and the quiet beauty of Lucy’s mother.
Obviously any book entitled THE CHRISTMAS PONY is going to be warm and charming, and with Melody Carlson at the pen it is guaranteed to entertain. I truly enjoyed the bright-eyed character of Lucy and the quiet strength of George. A wonderful tale for the holidays.
Book provided for review purposes.
Available Sept 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
Lucy Turnball wants nothing more than a pony for Christmas. But with money tight, her mother assures her she needs to be praying for boarders if they hope to enjoy Christmas at all. When two out-of-towners show up out of nowhere and need some place to stay, Lucy is amazed. If God could give them boarders during the holiday season, surely He can give her the adorable gray pony she’s wanted for so long. But soon, Lucy’s prayers for the future change.
When Lucy finds out George and Veronica are merely traveling partners, she begins to see George as husband material for her mother and father material for herself. Veronica is on her way to Hollywood to become a star and George has agreed to drive her there. But while Veronica gets antsy in the small no-nothing town and wants to get a move on it, George is charmed by the simple life and the quiet beauty of Lucy’s mother.
Obviously any book entitled THE CHRISTMAS PONY is going to be warm and charming, and with Melody Carlson at the pen it is guaranteed to entertain. I truly enjoyed the bright-eyed character of Lucy and the quiet strength of George. A wonderful tale for the holidays.
Book provided for review purposes.
Available Sept 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
November 19, 2012
My Thoughts on this Book
Lucy Turnbull wants the neighbor’s pony, Smoky so bad, but she knows her family cannot afford to purchase it, nor could they afford food. So Lucy gives up her wishes but she still visits Smoky as much as she can, until the day she finds he is gone, and the for sale sign is gone. In the mean time, Lucy meets some interesting strangers in town that need a place to stay, so she recommends her mom’s boarding house. This opens up a whole can on interest and tension for Lucy’s family. Will the situation work out with those staying at their house?
If you are looking for a sweet, heartwarming Christmas story, then you need to read The Christmas Pony by Melody Carlson. The characters are real-like and as the story unfolds the characters develop well in their role in the story. I love, loved this story and I know you will too. So pick up your copy to enjoy. But you better hurry so you can read it before Christmas!
“Available Sept 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
I received this book from the publisher Revell to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.
Lucy Turnbull wants the neighbor’s pony, Smoky so bad, but she knows her family cannot afford to purchase it, nor could they afford food. So Lucy gives up her wishes but she still visits Smoky as much as she can, until the day she finds he is gone, and the for sale sign is gone. In the mean time, Lucy meets some interesting strangers in town that need a place to stay, so she recommends her mom’s boarding house. This opens up a whole can on interest and tension for Lucy’s family. Will the situation work out with those staying at their house?
If you are looking for a sweet, heartwarming Christmas story, then you need to read The Christmas Pony by Melody Carlson. The characters are real-like and as the story unfolds the characters develop well in their role in the story. I love, loved this story and I know you will too. So pick up your copy to enjoy. But you better hurry so you can read it before Christmas!
“Available Sept 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
I received this book from the publisher Revell to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.
November 18, 2012
I can't resist a book with a horse on the cover, so I couldn't wait to read this! The book is a really sweet Christmas story, told from an eight year old's point of view. She sees the world through such innocent eyes, you can't help but like her story.
The book is a shorter novella, so it can be read without the stress of a 400 page book during the holiday season, which is great. The story was a bit different than I thought it would be. When I read the description, I thought that it might be on the sad side, but it wasn't. Lucy and her mother's boarding house had a really nice feel about it, even as they struggled financially during the Great Depression.
I can see this book being made into a sweet holiday tv movie. I do think that the characters of George, and especially Mama, could be fleshed out a little more. George was just such a sweet heart, but I would have liked to have known more about him. Veronica was the perfect nemesis, and I really appreciated that even though Lucy admired her glamour so much at first, she was smart enough to catch on to her true nature quickly.
Overall, a light, sweet holiday read.
book sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
The book is a shorter novella, so it can be read without the stress of a 400 page book during the holiday season, which is great. The story was a bit different than I thought it would be. When I read the description, I thought that it might be on the sad side, but it wasn't. Lucy and her mother's boarding house had a really nice feel about it, even as they struggled financially during the Great Depression.
I can see this book being made into a sweet holiday tv movie. I do think that the characters of George, and especially Mama, could be fleshed out a little more. George was just such a sweet heart, but I would have liked to have known more about him. Veronica was the perfect nemesis, and I really appreciated that even though Lucy admired her glamour so much at first, she was smart enough to catch on to her true nature quickly.
Overall, a light, sweet holiday read.
book sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
November 12, 2012
http://ceceliadowdy.com/blog/2012/11/...
It's 1937 and Lucy Turnball wants a pony for Christmas. However, times are hard and her mother and grandmother struggle to make ends meet since the death of her father. They own a rooming house yet, they have no boarders.
However, things change when two boarders, George and Veronica, show up at their home. Veronica is beautiful, glamorous, and she's anxious to get to Hollywood to become a movie star! George is quiet and thoughtful. Why are they traveling together? Also, why are there strange vibes between George and Lucy's mother?
As Lucy gets to know George and Veronica, she realizes that first appearances are not always accurate. She also stresses about playing the angel in the Christmas play. Will she get to play the coveted role this year?
This book was a light, somewhat fun read and I could imagine a lot of children and young teens would enjoy this story since it's told from the viewpoint of a 12-year-old girl. It's a nice Christmas story to enjoy over the holidays along with a cup of warm cocoa.
It's 1937 and Lucy Turnball wants a pony for Christmas. However, times are hard and her mother and grandmother struggle to make ends meet since the death of her father. They own a rooming house yet, they have no boarders.
However, things change when two boarders, George and Veronica, show up at their home. Veronica is beautiful, glamorous, and she's anxious to get to Hollywood to become a movie star! George is quiet and thoughtful. Why are they traveling together? Also, why are there strange vibes between George and Lucy's mother?
As Lucy gets to know George and Veronica, she realizes that first appearances are not always accurate. She also stresses about playing the angel in the Christmas play. Will she get to play the coveted role this year?
This book was a light, somewhat fun read and I could imagine a lot of children and young teens would enjoy this story since it's told from the viewpoint of a 12-year-old girl. It's a nice Christmas story to enjoy over the holidays along with a cup of warm cocoa.
October 18, 2012
So today while I was reading this book 2 weeks after my Aunt Lucy passed away, I found it ironic that I was reading a story about a girl named Lucy. By the time you read this some time in November I am assuming. My aunt will have been in Heaven 6 weeks. Still fresh, but with all the death we have had this year I am able to stay strong and move on.
I found this book enjoyable! I can not say that this was my FAVORITE Christmas Book by Melody Carlson but it is pretty close. But it was sure cute. I really enjoyed every min of reading The Christmas Pony. This story hits home to some who grew up during the depression Meaning the mother took in laundry to make a little extra. Or even opened up their homes as boarding houses when a spouse has passed. I think that everyone should.
I believe that reading Melody Carlson's Christmas books are going to become a tradition in my home. I think that it should be that way in all homes! Thank you to Revel for allowing me to review this book. All opinion are my own.
I found this book enjoyable! I can not say that this was my FAVORITE Christmas Book by Melody Carlson but it is pretty close. But it was sure cute. I really enjoyed every min of reading The Christmas Pony. This story hits home to some who grew up during the depression Meaning the mother took in laundry to make a little extra. Or even opened up their homes as boarding houses when a spouse has passed. I think that everyone should.
I believe that reading Melody Carlson's Christmas books are going to become a tradition in my home. I think that it should be that way in all homes! Thank you to Revel for allowing me to review this book. All opinion are my own.
November 11, 2012
“The Christmas Pony” is a sweet book. It’s the story of eight-year-old Lucy, who lives in the 1930s with her widowed mom and grandmother. Life is tough as they struggle to make ends meet by taking boarders into their home. Lucy wishes for a new dad, for her mom to be happy again, and (of course) for a pony for Christmas.
One day, she runs into a stranger and a lady with movie star looks while she is in town. Their car has broken down, and they have no place to stay. She suggests her own house, and thus begins the story that will end with … well, I won’t spoil it for you.
“The Christmas Pony” was a nice book. It was the book equivalent of eating cornflakes or of painting your walls beige. There were no big highs or lows, just a mild tale with a happy ending. It’s billed for adults, but I think its ideal audience would be children around fourth grade. It reminded me of an extended version of a story you might read in the December issue of Guideposts.
December 11, 2012
The Christmas Pony is a story that takes place during the Great Depression in the United States. Lucy Turnbull is a little girl whose father died, and who lives with her mother and grandmother. Her mother is able to keep the house by opening it to boarders. There isn't a lot of money for frivilous things, including Smokey, the pony that Lucy loves.
While walking into town to buy groceries, Lucy comes across a beautiful woman, Veronica, and the man with her, George. Since the town is very small, they have to be outsiders, and George's car broke down. It will take days to fix it. Lucy invites them home with her - partially because she's so taken with Veronica's beauty, partially because their family really needs the money if George and Veronica become boarders at the house.
What happens next is a sweet, albeit predictable, story of love, family and learning the lesson that beauty doesn't always come with sweetness.
While walking into town to buy groceries, Lucy comes across a beautiful woman, Veronica, and the man with her, George. Since the town is very small, they have to be outsiders, and George's car broke down. It will take days to fix it. Lucy invites them home with her - partially because she's so taken with Veronica's beauty, partially because their family really needs the money if George and Veronica become boarders at the house.
What happens next is a sweet, albeit predictable, story of love, family and learning the lesson that beauty doesn't always come with sweetness.
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