Storm Cloud
#4 in Black Pearl Ponies Series
on Goodreads (17)
What’s inside...
When horse-loving Kami spends the summer at her best friend Macy's family ranch, she is shocked to find one of the horses, Storm Cloud, being mistreated by Macy's brother, Wes. Kami is determined to uncover the reasons behind Wes's cruelty and save Storm Cloud. Meanwhile, Keira takes on the challenge of rehabilitating Stormy, an ex-rodeo pony with bad habits and a troubled past, after her uncle rescues him. Keira works to re-school Stormy and treat him right in hopes of finding him a caring owner. Both stories explore themes of compassion, animal welfare, and the power of perseverance, suitable for readers aged 8 and above who may be struggling, reluctant, or dyslexic.
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt when the storm cloud appeared?
What would you do if you were in the same situation as the main character?
Why is it important to help others, like the characters in the story did?
Can you think of a time when you overcame a fear, similar to how the characters faced the storm?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story's events, relating them to their own experiences.
Ask open-ended questions that prompt your child to think deeper about the story and its characters.
Discuss the moral of the story and what your child can learn from the characters’ actions and decisions.
Create a comfortable and distraction-free environment to make the reading session enjoyable and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming fear
Explanation: In 'Storm Cloud,' the protagonist faces and overcomes their fear of thunderstorms through understanding and support from family.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears with the help of understanding and supportive family members.
Example Lesson: Importance of empathy
Explanation: The story shows characters expressing empathy towards each other's fears and challenges, fostering a supportive environment.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to recognize and respond to the feelings and challenges of others, creating stronger relationships.
Example Lesson: Value of knowledge
Explanation: The book highlights how learning more about something that scares you, like thunderstorms, can help alleviate fear.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to seek knowledge as a way to address their fears and challenges.
Example Lesson: Courage to seek help
Explanation: Characters in the book ask for help when they're scared, demonstrating the strength in admitting you need others.
Real-World Application: Children learn that it's okay to ask for help and that doing so is a sign of courage, not weakness.
Example Lesson: Family as a source of comfort
Explanation: Throughout 'Storm Cloud,' the family unit is portrayed as a safe haven during times of fear and uncertainty.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to appreciate and lean on their family for support during difficult times.