Pony in the City

Written by Wendy Wahman

A curious pony ventures into the city to discover how children live, but gets lost along the way.

3.9/7 Bookroo experts·3.9/5 Goodreads · 27 ratings

40 pages

$16.95Save 6%

In stock. Also at Amazon.

Bookroo's summary

Otis, a curious pony, wonders about the lives of the children who visit his paddock. Do they sleep in stalls or get brushed like him? Ignored by older ponies, Otis sets off to the city to find answers. As he observes the playful children, he learns much but soon finds himself lost and hungry. Luckily, his favorite friends come to his rescue, leading him back home. Now, it's the other ponies' turn to be curious about his adventure. Join Otis on this heartwarming journey of discovery and friendship.

From the publisher

Otis wants to know about the kids who ride at his stables. Do they sleep in stalls? Do they also get brushed and braided? The older ponies ignore his questions, so Otis heads to the city to see for himself. And he finds answers, but he gets lost, too . . . until some of his favorite friends come to the rescue. Kids will relate to this sweet story about an adorable, inquisitive little pony.

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 40
Reading age: 3–6
Audience: Picture

Themes & topics

Books about horses Books about rescues and rescuing Books about friendship Books about being lost Books about home

Good to know

Stories behind the story

Were there any pivotal changes that your story/illustrations underwent throughout the writing/editing process?

The name of the main character changed from "Nickers," to "Otis." It was suggested people might think of 'knickers,' British underwear. I picked Otis, because horses love oats. All the ponies have horsey names: Whinny, Derby & Mosey are Otis's friends.

When was your favorite time reading this book aloud? Why?

There's a photo here of a baby in a red onesie. It was one of the first times I'd read, Pony in the City aloud. This was at Third Place Books in Seward Park. The baby near about slept through all the other readings. Suddenly, as I was reading 'Pony,' the baby perked up, started laughing, waving and reaching for the book. He (or was it a she) stayed riveted the entire reading. Since then, many people have told me their very young babies love Otis. So sweet!