Thursday, May 17, 2012

The Winter Pony by Iain Lawrence / The South Pole Ponies by Theodore K. Mason

Iain Lawrence has written a beautiful juvenile historical novel about Robert Falcon Scott's doomed expedition to reach the South Pole.  What makes this story so involving, is that Mr. Lawrence tells this story from the point of view of Jimmy Pigg, one of the white ponies who made the arduous journey.  This story is rich in historical detail and humanely told.  The voice of Jimmy Pigg is believable, heartbreaking and transcendant.  Wonderful for older children who love animals and adventure.  Be warned though, this story is tragic.

If children would like more information about these South Pole Ponies, they have another book they can turn too, and it is replete with photographs.  Theodore K. Mason has thoroughly researched both the Shackleton and Scott Expeditions and brings the plight of these men and ponies to vivid life.  This book was written in 1976, but it is a wonderful resource for children and adults interested in Scott, his ponies and Jimmy Pigg.  This book is cataloged for Young Adults so some parent supervision is advised.

About Me

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I am a reference librarian for a public library. My emphasis is on YA readers advisory as well as conducting storytimes for children (birth-five years). I have a Masters in Library and Information Science, as well as a background in Theatre.