Krista Ruepp

I am a huge fan of Krista Ruepp and Ulrike Heyne's lovely horse picturebooks, featuring a small Icelandic girl and her beloved pony. To my delight, I discovered they had created some early chapter books! The stories are simple but elegant, showing the characters' unique personalities and love of their island home in every line. The pictures, as always, are marvelous, the horses' wild manes and frothy waves showing the harsh but exuberant life of these northern islanders. These lovely stories are perfect for the young horse-lover.

Verdict: Sadly out of print, these would make a great special present if you can find a lightly used copy

Horses in the fog
ISBN: 978-0735811010; Published March 1999 by North-South; Received through Bookmooch

The Sea Pony
ISBN: 978-0735815346; Published September 2001 by North-South; Received through Bookmooch… (altro)

Of all the stories of a girl and her horse - or pony, as the case may be, these picture books are my favorite. Set in Iceland, Winter Pony is part of the continuing story of Anna and the pony she has raised, Prince. Summer is approaching and it's time for Prince to join the herd in the summer meadows in the mountain. Will he survive without her? Will he still remember her when the ponies return for the winter?

Ulrike Heyne's gorgeous illustrations are perfect for this story of hope and friendship, capturing not only the rugged landscape and harsh living conditions but also the small beauties and everyday joys of the characters' lives. The magical illustrations and beautiful story make this an excellent choice for any age of reader.

Verdict: It is well worth the time to search out a used copy of this title. The lovely illustrations and simple, heartfelt story will be perfect for every child who longs for their own horse friend.

ISBN: 978-0735816916; Published August 2002 by North-South (originally published as Annas Islandpony, currently out of print); Borrowed from the library; Purchased for the library; Added to my personal wishlist… (altro)