If a Horse Had Words [Hardcover]

For horse-loving readers of all ages, a lyrical and exquisitely illustrated picture book following the relationship between a boy and a horse, separated then reunited. This is a story about enduring friendships and how language is shaped by our experiences.

The foal is born on a spring morning of sunshine and snow melt. If she had words, she would say willow, crocus, puddle and sky .. .

Red Badger is a newborn foal learning to stand when she slips and gets stuck in a muddy badger hole. It is a young boy who frees her, and his kindness and gentleness mark the beginning of their friendship -- though she will always be wary of the ground that briefly trapped her. As the seasons pass on the ranch, Red Badger learns more about her world: Fall is leaf rustle and fence posts. Winter is white hills and long nights. The boy is hay, a gentle touch, playing in the snow and the sweet smell of peppermints. If a horse had words, the word would be . . .friend.

This is a beautifully written and heartwarming story told from the horse's point of view that follows her relationship with a boy from the day she is born, to when she is sent to auction, to the day she and the boy are reunited at a rodeo where she has become a bronc and he a cowboy. Readers drawn to stories about the unbreakable bonds between children and animals will remember this one.  --starred review,Publishers Weekly

This book is written in a poetic and lyrical manner. . . . A solid and engaging choice for horse lovers or anyone who has ever bonded with an animal.  --School Library Journal

If a Horse Had Words is a colourful exploration of language and friendship. . . . [A] gentle and emotive story [that] will capture the hearts of many readers. The illustrations and lyrical text bring the story to life and capture a gentle sense of whimsy that will delight and engage young readers. Highly recommendlãÚ