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The Quicksand Pony
'Biddy, I'm sorry, we're going to have to leave her.'
'What?' Biddy struggled out of the quicksand. 'You can't leave her! The tide's coming in. She'll drown!'
But the pony is trapped and Biddy is forced to go on without her. The next day the only signs of Bella area hoofprints in the sand...with small footprints and the paw marks of a dog. Who has rescued Bella? Who could be so small and be alone on this remote beach?
Biddy's search takes her into wild secret country where she discovers the truth about a mysterious disappearance that happened many years ago.
Alison Lester's picture books are loved by families around the world. In this gripping adventure story, set in the Australian bush she knows so well, she comes into her own as a writer and a born storyteller.
'What?' Biddy struggled out of the quicksand. 'You can't leave her! The tide's coming in. She'll drown!'
But the pony is trapped and Biddy is forced to go on without her. The next day the only signs of Bella area hoofprints in the sand...with small footprints and the paw marks of a dog. Who has rescued Bella? Who could be so small and be alone on this remote beach?
Biddy's search takes her into wild secret country where she discovers the truth about a mysterious disappearance that happened many years ago.
Alison Lester's picture books are loved by families around the world. In this gripping adventure story, set in the Australian bush she knows so well, she comes into her own as a writer and a born storyteller.
162 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1997
4 people are currently reading
153 people want to read
About the author
Alison Lester
124 books118 followersHas a son Lachie Hume, who is also a published children's book author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
April 8, 2020
Alison Lester's 'The Snow Pony' has been a favourite of mine since I was seven, and for almost twenty years now, I have wanted to read 'The Quicksand Pony' too, certain I would love it just as much. Recently, I found a copy in my local charity shop, which was incredibly exciting, and today I finally read it.
I knew it would pack an emotional punch, since the blurb describes Biddy's pony getting stuck in quicksand, with Biddy told they would have to leave her behind. From that description I was a little puzzled as to why they wold leave the pony, but it makes sense in the book, thankfully.
To me, there is something special about Alison Lester's books, some unexpected quality that makes them stand out clearly in my memory. Perhaps part of it is that they are so vividly Australian - I almost feel like I have been there, she describes it so brilliantly.
Despite knowing that Bella would become stuck in quicksand, it was still a tough read. The countless pony books I have read, along with many viewings of 'The Neverending Story' as a child, have made me very sensitive to the thought of having to see your beloved horse trapped in quicksand or a bog. It would be terrifying, and in Bella's case, there's the tide to worry about as well. Even a small horse is so big that rescuing them can be incredibly difficult.
There was a whole other plot that I hadn't anticipated, which was beautifully handled as well. I wont be specific, as I don't want to spoil it. At only 154 pages, I was able to read this in one sitting, which was a lovely experience.
I'm so glad I finally have a copy of this, and that I enjoyed it just as much as I had hoped!
I knew it would pack an emotional punch, since the blurb describes Biddy's pony getting stuck in quicksand, with Biddy told they would have to leave her behind. From that description I was a little puzzled as to why they wold leave the pony, but it makes sense in the book, thankfully.
To me, there is something special about Alison Lester's books, some unexpected quality that makes them stand out clearly in my memory. Perhaps part of it is that they are so vividly Australian - I almost feel like I have been there, she describes it so brilliantly.
Despite knowing that Bella would become stuck in quicksand, it was still a tough read. The countless pony books I have read, along with many viewings of 'The Neverending Story' as a child, have made me very sensitive to the thought of having to see your beloved horse trapped in quicksand or a bog. It would be terrifying, and in Bella's case, there's the tide to worry about as well. Even a small horse is so big that rescuing them can be incredibly difficult.
There was a whole other plot that I hadn't anticipated, which was beautifully handled as well. I wont be specific, as I don't want to spoil it. At only 154 pages, I was able to read this in one sitting, which was a lovely experience.
I'm so glad I finally have a copy of this, and that I enjoyed it just as much as I had hoped!
January 30, 2013
Beautifully bewitching and starkly poignant, this evocative Australian classic is a must-read!
This stunning 15th anniversary edition of the classic ‘The Quicksand Pony’ is a delight to behold, and something which will appeal to all horse and pony mad children/ teens around the world. Catching your eye with its sublime simplistic story and exquisite cover, this unmistakably Australian book is just exceptional as to be remicent of other masterful works; such as Black Beauty or Justin Morgan had a horse. This cleverly crafted, meaningful novel is not only about a childhood that is enviable but one that is real, grounded both in place and the pattern of the generations. Children and older readers alike are presented with something so personal and tangible, that you can almost touch it as you grasp this story with both hands. Personally nostalgic and remicent of man’s love with this spirited and undeniably breathtaking animal; the horse, I found this exclusive book a real treasure. Captivating and thoroughly compelling throughout, I was lost within the pages that took hold so as to render me rooted to the spot and unable to put the book down for even a moment. Enchanting and containing such acute pathos, this is a book with as much heart as a horse, sincerity and candidness as to move you to tears. Complete with a colorful cast of characters, who are attractive and likeable, I would highly recommend this brilliant book to all!
‘Biddy, I’m sorry, we’re going to have to leave her.’
‘What?’ Biddy struggled out of the Quicksand.
‘You can’t leave her! The tide’s coming in.
She’ll drown!’
But the pony is trapped and Biddy is forced to go on without her. Next day the only signs of Bella are hoof prints in the sand…with small footprints and the paw marks of a dog. Who could be so small and be alone on this remote beach? Biddy’s search takes her into wild secret country where she discovers the truth about a mysterious disappearance that happened many years ago.
Set within the Australian bush, Alison Lester’s gripping and exciting adventure is a classy classic read. Complete with notes from the author, this wonderful 15th anniversary edition of a timeless tale has now become a firm favorite of mine and one that I intend to cherish forever!
*I won this book on “Wondering Sheila” Book Blog, as part of ‘Australia day book giveaway’. This particular book was chosen by me from a selection of titles.*
This stunning 15th anniversary edition of the classic ‘The Quicksand Pony’ is a delight to behold, and something which will appeal to all horse and pony mad children/ teens around the world. Catching your eye with its sublime simplistic story and exquisite cover, this unmistakably Australian book is just exceptional as to be remicent of other masterful works; such as Black Beauty or Justin Morgan had a horse. This cleverly crafted, meaningful novel is not only about a childhood that is enviable but one that is real, grounded both in place and the pattern of the generations. Children and older readers alike are presented with something so personal and tangible, that you can almost touch it as you grasp this story with both hands. Personally nostalgic and remicent of man’s love with this spirited and undeniably breathtaking animal; the horse, I found this exclusive book a real treasure. Captivating and thoroughly compelling throughout, I was lost within the pages that took hold so as to render me rooted to the spot and unable to put the book down for even a moment. Enchanting and containing such acute pathos, this is a book with as much heart as a horse, sincerity and candidness as to move you to tears. Complete with a colorful cast of characters, who are attractive and likeable, I would highly recommend this brilliant book to all!
‘Biddy, I’m sorry, we’re going to have to leave her.’
‘What?’ Biddy struggled out of the Quicksand.
‘You can’t leave her! The tide’s coming in.
She’ll drown!’
But the pony is trapped and Biddy is forced to go on without her. Next day the only signs of Bella are hoof prints in the sand…with small footprints and the paw marks of a dog. Who could be so small and be alone on this remote beach? Biddy’s search takes her into wild secret country where she discovers the truth about a mysterious disappearance that happened many years ago.
Set within the Australian bush, Alison Lester’s gripping and exciting adventure is a classy classic read. Complete with notes from the author, this wonderful 15th anniversary edition of a timeless tale has now become a firm favorite of mine and one that I intend to cherish forever!
*I won this book on “Wondering Sheila” Book Blog, as part of ‘Australia day book giveaway’. This particular book was chosen by me from a selection of titles.*
November 6, 2017
I loved this horse tale and will recommend it to my junior horse-crazy readers.
February 9, 2017
I loved it. It was a very informative fictional book and is a goodread for 10 - 12 year olds
Annie
Annie
February 6, 2012
I had this book on audio tape when I was little and living in Australia- my parents wanted my sister and I to learn about the country we had come to. I loved this story, it was exciting, not too twee, emotional, and even had a happy ending! Not sure what I would think of it if I tried it again, after all these year, but based on my seven year old memories of it, 5 stars! Definitely one I want to hunt down for my own kids, when I have them!
March 23, 2021
I have long been a fan of Lester's work, since reading her novel The Snow Pony as a child. I hadn't gotten around to reading The Quicksand Pony, but when I saw this new cover edition, I knew I had to read it.
The Quicksand Pony will tear at your heart and compell you to keep turning pages. From the very first page, this Middle Grade wonder is captivating.
It feels as though this is a story inside a story with years of folklore and small town gossip rolled into one. The headland is so eerie, Lester depicts the Australian bush so vividly from the damp air, down to the bird calls.
Biddy is a firecracker. She is all flame and no smoke. She is brave, honest and funny. A perfect protagonist for this tale. Joe is clever, honest and caring. He grew up so isolated and being taught to fear others that he craves human companionship and love. It is amazing to see the things that he can do, how he survives on his own.
Reading this tale from multiple points of view gives such a fantastic depth. It makes the reader feel like they are in on a secret that the characters don't know about.
This tale ends on such a heartwarming note. The Quicksand Pony is filled with family, friends and finding yourself. Set in an amazing Australian coastal landscape, this Middle Grade story is one for everyone.
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for sending me a review copy of this title. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Quicksand Pony will tear at your heart and compell you to keep turning pages. From the very first page, this Middle Grade wonder is captivating.
It feels as though this is a story inside a story with years of folklore and small town gossip rolled into one. The headland is so eerie, Lester depicts the Australian bush so vividly from the damp air, down to the bird calls.
Biddy is a firecracker. She is all flame and no smoke. She is brave, honest and funny. A perfect protagonist for this tale. Joe is clever, honest and caring. He grew up so isolated and being taught to fear others that he craves human companionship and love. It is amazing to see the things that he can do, how he survives on his own.
Reading this tale from multiple points of view gives such a fantastic depth. It makes the reader feel like they are in on a secret that the characters don't know about.
This tale ends on such a heartwarming note. The Quicksand Pony is filled with family, friends and finding yourself. Set in an amazing Australian coastal landscape, this Middle Grade story is one for everyone.
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for sending me a review copy of this title. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 23, 2023
Biddy loved her white horse Bella. She was excited that her parents had agreed to take her on the next round-up of cattle. The family farm was near the bay and they would ride down along the surf beach before the tide came in to collect the stragglers of the herd and bring them back to the holding yards.
Nine years earlier, a girl called Joycie had a baby she named Joe. She'd been married and her husband was killed in a freak fight. Joycie never trusted people after that, so she left with her baby. Biddy's cousin Irene told her about it. Everyone thought she and the baby died.
The round-up was successful. Biddy and her parents were returning along the beach. Her father is in the lead with the majority of the herd. Her mum and Biddy followed with the rest. Biddy's mum asked her to get the two stragglers in the shallows. She rushed out with Bella sure-footed until she got stuck in quicksand. After several attempts to get her out, Bella's mum told Biddy they'd have to leave her horse and hope that the incoming waves would wash around her so she could free herself.
Biddy cried knowing that her horse may not survive.
The next day they went back to find the horse was gone. There were footprints in the sand, a small person, and a dog. What could have happened? How could Bella have been saved?
This is a beautiful story. To see this as a 15th Anniversary edition assures me that this is a classic.
Nine years earlier, a girl called Joycie had a baby she named Joe. She'd been married and her husband was killed in a freak fight. Joycie never trusted people after that, so she left with her baby. Biddy's cousin Irene told her about it. Everyone thought she and the baby died.
The round-up was successful. Biddy and her parents were returning along the beach. Her father is in the lead with the majority of the herd. Her mum and Biddy followed with the rest. Biddy's mum asked her to get the two stragglers in the shallows. She rushed out with Bella sure-footed until she got stuck in quicksand. After several attempts to get her out, Bella's mum told Biddy they'd have to leave her horse and hope that the incoming waves would wash around her so she could free herself.
Biddy cried knowing that her horse may not survive.
The next day they went back to find the horse was gone. There were footprints in the sand, a small person, and a dog. What could have happened? How could Bella have been saved?
This is a beautiful story. To see this as a 15th Anniversary edition assures me that this is a classic.
August 20, 2018
This was pretty good, more of a 3.5, nearly a 4 - a tale of two kids (one from a farm, one from the bush) whose stories' converge in a heartwarming way - even though some tough stuff happens. Pacing a bit slow to begin with, however the beautiful descriptions of the bush, the sea, trees, horses and wildlife made up for it - but would you expect anything less from Alison Lester? She knows her stuff!
January 15, 2022
I can’t believe I only discovered this story as an adult! Beautifully written, incredibly moving. This book had me shedding tears as well as reading with a bug grin on my face. My 11 year daughter read it after me and kept updating me as to what part she was up to in such a beautifully animated way - it was beautiful to be able to share the experience of reading this with her. One of my favourite novels of all time.
October 13, 2019
The quicksand pony is about a girl named Biddy and her horse Bella. But when Bella is trapped in the quicksand and Biddy is forced to leave without her, Joe and Devil rescue her. I think that this story is excellent for people of all ages. When I read this book it feels like I'm part of the story too. I have enjoyed reading this exciting adventure.
December 26, 2017
This is one of my favourite books that I’ve ever read. This book is so good that I’m struggling to explain it. I loved this book so much that I read it twice. It is so cool how mysterious it is. Make sure you read it.
March 8, 2021
Rich, vivid, authentic description of the setting, and the interwoven stories worked so well. Tightly paced with just the right amount of suspense. Give it a go, even if you're not usually into 'horsey' type reads!
December 19, 2021
I loved this book so much! I love horses so I enjoyed that bit but when things were sad I didn't really like it I mean who would. Overall I enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to people who are interested in horses!
April 12, 2022
A quick, fun read - I loved this! I just wanted a bit more at the end, like the family finding out about Joycie, meeting Joe, how Joe settles in, etc. I loved how wonderful the descriptions were too, I could really see their valley!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2024
I’ve been a big fan of Alison Lester’s picture books for many years but only recently discovered her novels. The Quicksand Pony did not disappoint. Beautifully written and a captivating story set in one of my most treasured heart places, Wilson’s Promontory.
September 2, 2024
I enjoyed this book. I didn't know how she could make a story about quicksand and a pony, but it was more than I expected.
It felt like it was set in the 50's. A story my dad would have told. The pony isn't the main focus, but that didn't matter.
It felt like it was set in the 50's. A story my dad would have told. The pony isn't the main focus, but that didn't matter.
August 28, 2018
Nice little read very sweet.
April 8, 2019
Read this book back in my teens and reread it again for a school assignment.. Still love it as much as I did way back then...
April 8, 2019
I couldn't put it down.
August 20, 2019
Good book for child readers.
January 15, 2021
This was a little bit of a sad story.
April 2, 2021
Very predictable but cute story line.
July 7, 2021
A cute children's book with "capable child" characters (age about 9). I would have loved this in primary school
August 22, 2021
A gorgeous book with two parallel stories; the mysterious disappearance of a woman and her baby and the story of Biddy, her pony, Bella, and her first experience on the family muster.
July 3, 2022
A lovely story for young people. Ended too abruptly. Otherwise would have been 5 stars.
June 16, 2014
Quicksand Pony is a thrillingly emotional novel about drovers in Auatralia. In the book, the little girl is taken on a drove to get cattle from the "back mountain". Riding across the beach at sunset, her lifelong friend and pony gets stuck in quicksand. Having to leave her there, the little girl and her family continue home. When the little girl's father goes back out he sees that the pony is no longer there. In fact, a little boy, kept away from civilisation has rescued the pony.
The (true) story of The Quicksand Pony is suitable for all agegroups.
I highly reccommend it to young teenagers 11 - 15.
The (true) story of The Quicksand Pony is suitable for all agegroups.
I highly reccommend it to young teenagers 11 - 15.
December 22, 2009
This book is a great introduction to a novel-style book for kids. It's got horses, kids living on their own, and a bit of adventure mixed together to make a great story line that any kid can appreciate. The author is Australian, but really this book could've been set just about anywhere in the US just as easily.
March 20, 2012
Lovely novel following two intersecting stories: a farm girl anxious for adventure and a wild boy living in the bush but looking for more. Great intro to novels. Easy read, some Aussie slang that may require translation to others.
July 26, 2014
This is a short, sweet read which is both its strength and weakness. It's a slight story which is frustrating for a reader wanting something more substantial but at the same time it's a beautifully written snapshot of rural life.
March 8, 2015
I have always carted around this book because I read it when I was younger and could never bring myself to let it go. I have finally reread it and understand why I loved it so much. It is a great story. Full review to come.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews