A review by virginiagp
Pony by R.J. Palacio

5.0

I was enthralled when I saw that R. J. Palacio had a new book published. This book, Pony isn’t Wonder, but for me it was a wonder! This historical fiction/adventure is the story of a young boy, Silas who lives alone with his dad — a boot maker, inventor, and early photographer —, his dog, and his constant companion, a ghost named Mittenwool. As the story begins, Silas’ father is forcibly taken from their home by men who want his assistance with a counterfeiting ring. When a pony who was with the men returns to the house almost a day later, Silas sees it as a sign that he needs to go after his father. Mittenwool tries to convince Silas he should follow the directions his father had given him and stay safe at home. When Silas cannot be stopped, Mittenwool accompanies him on a mission to find and save his father.

What ensues is a gripping adventure tale including cranky old Marshalls, treacherous passages, encounters with spirits, and a showdown. And while this is riveting, what remained with me after I finished the book was the overwhelming spirit of love and care that the book’s characters share, and a hope for better times, better days, and the chance for people - both in the book and in our life and times - to be better to one another. I very much enjoyed this book.