A Horse Named Sky
#3 of 4 in A Voice of the Wilderness Series
What’s inside...
A Horse Named Sky is a stand-alone companion novel to Rosanne Parry’s bestsellers, chronicling the journey of a young wild horse named Sky, who is exiled from his band. After being captured for the Pony Express, Sky must navigate treacherous terrain and face numerous challenges to reunite with his family. The story explores themes of family bonds, leadership, and the impact of human encroachment on wildlife habitats. Illustrated in black-and-white, the book also includes a map and extensive backmatter about wild horses, making it a great educational read for children and adults alike.
Discussion points
How do you think Sky felt when she encountered challenges? Can you relate to her feelings?
What does the friendship between Sky and the other characters teach us about teamwork and trust?
Why is it important to care for and respect animals, as shown in the story?
What did Sky learn from her adventures? Have you learned something similar in your own experiences?
If you were Sky, what would you have done differently in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to imagine themselves in Sky’s hooves, exploring how they would feel facing similar situations.
Discuss the importance of friendship and trust, highlighting moments in the book where teamwork was crucial.
Use Sky’s story to teach the value of perseverance and courage, asking your child to recall a time they overcame a personal challenge.
Connect the themes of the book to real-life scenarios to reinforce understanding and personal growth.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'A Horse Named Sky', children see characters who learn to understand and empathize with the feelings of others, including animals. This is demonstrated through the nurturing relationship between the main characters and Sky.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these lessons by learning to recognize and respect the feelings and perspectives of their peers, family members, and pets.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The story underscores the importance of taking care of others, as the protagonist takes on the responsibility of caring for Sky. This aspect teaches children the values of duty and diligence.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of fulfilling their responsibilities, whether it's doing chores at home or completing assignments in school.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite challenges, the characters in the book continue to strive and work towards their goals, showing the importance of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn from this by continuing to work towards their own goals, be it in academics, sports, or any other activities, even when faced with difficulties.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The story portrays how characters bounce back from setbacks and maintain a positive outlook. This teaches children how to remain resilient in face of adversities.
Real-World Application: This attribute is crucial for children to develop as it prepares them to handle life's ups and downs constructively and with emotional strength.