Last year my son received a copy of Kody’s Capers Finding Joy for completing the Summer Reading Challenge. He was thrilled! It is at a level that engages him but is challenging enough to stretch his vocabulary and reading skills. And it’s a lovely read to be able to share about in a horse book review!
In this story of Finding Joy, young Kody is introduced to the reader as what appears to be a neglected pony. He is lonely and at times goes without food or shelter. This is illustrated within the book, with the black and white pony with two different coloured eyes, standing in a field with rain falling.
Kody’s life changes when some strangers turn up and load him and some other ponies onto a trailer. They experience a scary, long trip on the trailer. Where are they going?
Kody finds the journey ends at a lovely property with a nice lady. The next few weeks appear to pass with his health care needs being tended to. Then he and the other ponies are introduced to a group of volunteers. Kody clicks with one of them. Has he found his special person?
In time Kody is adopted and his new life begins on yet another property. He and his owner Terri learn together. Then Kody is used to help some donkeys learn to socialise and to bring joy to people in another setting. The story finishes nicely and has a lovely poem at the end to wrap things up and encourage children. A delightful read.
Author: Terri Abbattiello
Children’s fiction – early grade readers
In my library? Indeed it is! Well, technically my son’s 😉
