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katykelly's review against another edition
5.0
Historical heart-tugger, powerful story.
Whether or not you know (and inevitably loved) Wonder, this is one to judge on its merits separately. Though it shares heart with its predecessor, you would not recognise its author as that of Auggie's story.
While I chose this based on the author's name, I was also intrigued by the premise and historical setting. In a backwoods-type setting, a father and son live in relative peace, the son learning science and astronomy, photography and history from a well-read and erudite parent. Until the night his father is taken by men on horses, leaving Silas alone and scared for his father.
Setting out on the horse that makes it way back to his home, Silas determines to track the men down and save his father, with the strange horse and his imaginary friend Mittenwool for company and guidance.
And so begins an adventure of bravery and discovery. Silas has much to learn about his father, his own history, and just what he is capable of.
I could picture each of these chapters in front of me on a screen, there are some wonderful characters here, alongside the mysteries of the overtly-smart horse and the imaginary friend who seems able to interact and view the world as something much more.
There's a blurring of genres here, with Westerns, supernatural stories, family mysteries, all showing their hands. It's also a bit of a heart-breaker at times and one that gives right to the last.
Loved Silas, I wanted more of his Dad who I actually felt was rather fanciable from the little I saw of him. I would love this to be made into a film or series, and I also hope this gives younger readers a taste for learning about the original techniques of telescopy and photography that Silas and his Dad use. Well-researched and an exciting, enveloping read from Palacio.
For ages 11 and above.
With thanks to Netgalley for providing a sample reading copy.
Whether or not you know (and inevitably loved) Wonder, this is one to judge on its merits separately. Though it shares heart with its predecessor, you would not recognise its author as that of Auggie's story.
While I chose this based on the author's name, I was also intrigued by the premise and historical setting. In a backwoods-type setting, a father and son live in relative peace, the son learning science and astronomy, photography and history from a well-read and erudite parent. Until the night his father is taken by men on horses, leaving Silas alone and scared for his father.
Setting out on the horse that makes it way back to his home, Silas determines to track the men down and save his father, with the strange horse and his imaginary friend Mittenwool for company and guidance.
And so begins an adventure of bravery and discovery. Silas has much to learn about his father, his own history, and just what he is capable of.
I could picture each of these chapters in front of me on a screen, there are some wonderful characters here, alongside the mysteries of the overtly-smart horse and the imaginary friend who seems able to interact and view the world as something much more.
There's a blurring of genres here, with Westerns, supernatural stories, family mysteries, all showing their hands. It's also a bit of a heart-breaker at times and one that gives right to the last.
Loved Silas, I wanted more of his Dad who I actually felt was rather fanciable from the little I saw of him. I would love this to be made into a film or series, and I also hope this gives younger readers a taste for learning about the original techniques of telescopy and photography that Silas and his Dad use. Well-researched and an exciting, enveloping read from Palacio.
For ages 11 and above.
With thanks to Netgalley for providing a sample reading copy.
serenityofbooks's review against another edition
4.0
Pony by R.J. Palacio is an unexpected gem that completely took me by surprise. When a friend handed me their copy, telling me they loved it but keeping all the details under wraps, I couldn't resist the intrigue. And I am so glad I trusted her recommendation!
The story revolves around Silas Bird, a brave 12-year-old, who embarks on a life-changing adventure after his father is abruptly taken away by three mysterious men in the dead of night. Left frightened and alone, with only his ghostly companion Mittenwool for company, Silas sets out to rescue his dad. When a mysterious Pony appears, he takes it as a sign.
I won't divulge too much about the plot because half the joy of reading Pony is uncovering its delightful surprises. I will admit, though, that it took me a few chapters to truly immerse myself in the story. However, once I did, I was completely hooked! Pony defies categorization, blending historical fiction with the Wild West and hints of magical realism. Surprisingly, I discovered after reading that it's aimed at 8 to 11-year-olds! But I can tell you, that didn't affect my enjoyment of this book one bit!
Palacio's talent for crafting imaginative worlds that resonates with both young readers and adults alike shines through in Pony. Her writing is exquisite, breathing life into a heart-warming coming-of-age tale that explores themes of love, the search for belonging, and the power of friendship.
I highly recommend Pony to anyone in search of a tender story that will leave a lasting impression. Regardless of your usual reading preferences, I believe this book has something special to offer to all readers who appreciate a beautifully crafted narrative with an array of special characters.
The story revolves around Silas Bird, a brave 12-year-old, who embarks on a life-changing adventure after his father is abruptly taken away by three mysterious men in the dead of night. Left frightened and alone, with only his ghostly companion Mittenwool for company, Silas sets out to rescue his dad. When a mysterious Pony appears, he takes it as a sign.
I won't divulge too much about the plot because half the joy of reading Pony is uncovering its delightful surprises. I will admit, though, that it took me a few chapters to truly immerse myself in the story. However, once I did, I was completely hooked! Pony defies categorization, blending historical fiction with the Wild West and hints of magical realism. Surprisingly, I discovered after reading that it's aimed at 8 to 11-year-olds! But I can tell you, that didn't affect my enjoyment of this book one bit!
Palacio's talent for crafting imaginative worlds that resonates with both young readers and adults alike shines through in Pony. Her writing is exquisite, breathing life into a heart-warming coming-of-age tale that explores themes of love, the search for belonging, and the power of friendship.
I highly recommend Pony to anyone in search of a tender story that will leave a lasting impression. Regardless of your usual reading preferences, I believe this book has something special to offer to all readers who appreciate a beautifully crafted narrative with an array of special characters.
avigail's review against another edition
5.0
March is the month that a lot of people read middle-grade novels. Pony is the third middle-grade book I read this March, and it was one of the best books I read. I love R.J. Palacio’s writing; she has a way of connecting with the younger audience through her books. Westerns are in fashion in different genres, and this is a fantastic Western with a little paranormal and a lot of historical fiction. Silas is a beautiful character, and a lot of children can see themselves as being Silas while reading this book. His character grows through the book, and you want him to have a better life. I listened to the audiobook while reading the e-book and enjoyed the plot even more. More audiobooks should have the author’s letter and acknowledgments recorded and read. I believe the acknowledgments are a significant part of the book. Looking forward to reading more books by R.J. PalacioR. J. Palacio. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
bridgeofbooks's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
3.0
booktopia_7879's review against another edition
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.25
emilycirrus's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
janelleaimi's review
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
notblue's review against another edition
5.0
I'll write a short blurb later. Amazing book though!!!
*to be edited*
5/5
Me: This is probably gonna be one of the very few books I read this year without an LGBTQ character...
gets to the last section of the book
Me:YOOOOOO JOHN
*to be edited*
5/5
Spoiler
Me: This is probably gonna be one of the very few books I read this year without an LGBTQ character...
gets to the last section of the book
Me:YOOOOOO JOHN
buaslbutterfly's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
informative
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0