The Island Horse
on Goodreads (111)
What’s inside...
In the early 19th century in coastal Nova Scotia, almost-ten-year-old Ellie struggles with her mother's recent death. When she and her father relocate to remote Sable Island, her feelings of isolation persist until she befriends a wild stallion named Orchid. Ellie discovers that Orchid and his family are in danger, prompting her to take action to protect them. Through these experiences, Ellie finds healing in the power of love and friendship.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
160 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Ellie felt when she moved to the new island? Can you relate to her feelings?
What do you think the horse symbolizes in the story? Why do you think the horse was important to Ellie?
How did Ellie change from the beginning to the end of the book? What caused those changes?
What would you have done if you were in Ellie’s shoes when she discovered the wild horse?
Why is friendship an important theme in the book? How do the friendships in the story develop?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and emotions about the story, relating it to their own experiences with moving or making new friends.
Discuss the symbolism of the horse and other key elements in the story to enhance deeper understanding and critical thinking.
Highlight Ellie’s character development and ask your child to think about times they've faced similar challenges and how they've grown from them.
Prompt your child to imagine alternative scenarios, fostering creativity and empathy by asking how they would feel and react in similar situations.
Focus on the friendships portrayed in the book. Discuss with your child the qualities that make someone a good friend and the importance of friendship.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: In 'The Island Horse', the protagonist Ellie faces numerous challenges after moving to a new place. Her courage in adapting to new surroundings and her resilience in overcoming obstacles are central themes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace changes in their own lives, such as moving to a new school or city, and tackling problems with bravery.
Example Lesson: Friendship and Trust
Explanation: Ellie develops a close bond with a wild horse. This relationship, built on mutual trust and respect, highlights the importance of friendship.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this by understanding the value of building trust and fostering friendships in their lives, teaching them how to relate to others positively.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: Ellie learns to understand and empathize with the horse's fears and needs, which mirrors the broader theme of empathy towards animals and people.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be considerate and understanding towards the feelings and situations of others around them, both animals and humans.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in Pursuing Goals
Explanation: The process of taming and helping the horse reflects the lesson of perseverance and working diligently towards achieving goals.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of persistence and effort in achieving their own goals, be it in academics, sports, or personal hobbies.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Caretaking
Explanation: Taking care of the horse teaches Ellie about responsibility and the dedication needed to look after another living being.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand and develop a sense of responsibility by caring for pets, helping with chores, or looking after younger siblings.