A review by serenityofbooks
Pony by R.J. Palacio

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.