The Forgotten Horse - Book 1
#1 of 6 in Connemara Adventures Series
on Goodreads (335)
What’s inside...
Winner of the Best International Equine Fiction Award at the EQUUS Film & Arts Fest 2022, California USA. When 12-year-old Clodagh encounters a mysterious grey pony named Ozzie in her paddock, her life takes a dramatic turn. Tasked with caring for him, Clodagh quickly forms a deep bond with Ozzie. However, their friendship is threatened when Ozzie's absent owner returns and sells him to a disreputable riding school. Faced with adversity, Clodagh must find a way to rescue her equine friend. This heartwarming tale by Elaine Heney, an international horsewoman and award-winning documentary director, explores the profound relationship between a girl and her horse, emphasizing themes of kindness, resilience, and perseverance. Perfect for middle school kids and young adult readers who adore horses, this book offers valuable life lessons and is a delightful read for anyone who cherishes animal stories.
Discussion points
What do you think the forgotten horse felt being left behind?
How do you think the friendship between the horse and the other characters changed throughout the story?
What would you have done if you were in the horse's place?
Why do you think it's important to remember and care for every member of a group?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone feel remembered or included?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to consider the emotions of the forgotten horse and other characters.
Discuss the value of friendship and inclusivity, relating it to the child’s own experiences with friends or at school.
Highlight the changes in the horse’s situation throughout the book to help your child understand character development and plot progression.
Use the book’s themes to talk about the importance of caring for and uplifting others in their own community.
Support critical thinking by asking your child to imagine alternative endings or different actions the characters could have taken.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: The main character shows kindness towards the forgotten horse, despite its initial unfriendly behavior.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of understanding and caring for others, even when they do not immediately reciprocate the kindness.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist faces various challenges in caring for the horse, but remains dedicated and does not give up.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persistence and hard work in achieving goals, especially when facing difficult tasks.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Taking care of the horse requires the character to be responsible and reliable.
Real-World Application: This mirrors real-life responsibilities children may have, such as taking care of a pet, and highlights the importance of being dependable.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: The character overcomes fear to help and ride the forgotten horse.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to confront their own fears and challenges, showing them that braving the unknown can lead to rewarding experiences.
Example Lesson: The Power of Friendship
Explanation: A strong bond eventually forms between the character and the horse, showcasing the mutual benefits of friendship.
Real-World Application: This reinforces the idea that friendships enrich lives and provide support through life’s challenges.