Natale (author of Hu & Lei Rescue Ba) carries that theme of self-worth throughout this gentle picture book, as readers get a chance to watch Jack find out just how special he really is. When the rancher loads up Jack and his Australian shepherd pal Lucky for an epic road trip, Jack’s nervous but excited. That excitement’s warranted, as Jack gets to experience new sights and much-loved treats, including the rancher’s favorite traveling snack, cactus candy. When they reach their destination of Wyoming, Iowa, Jack is thrilled to see it’s Christmas time, with the town decked out in twinkling lights. In a surprising twist, Jack gets to star in a Christmas parade with the other “Ponies of the Americas.”
Vincze draws out the landscape’s color palette in the story’s spirited illustrations, and the maps of Jack’s road trip progress offer younger readers an opportunity to learn about new cities and states. Back matter offers vocabulary from the story—including interesting facts on ponies of the Americas—as well as a fun recipe for homemade cactus candy. Ultimately, Jack gets his much-coveted chance to show off, and the payoff is a Scandinavian Christmas celebration with the rancher and his family. This is a memorable holiday treat.
Takeaway: A desert pony learns what makes him special in this holiday treat.
Comparable Titles: Edward Hemingway’s Tough Cookie, Riel Nason’s The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt.
Production grades
Cover: A-
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
