A ONE-EYED HORSE IN A ONE-HORSE TOWN

The story of a beloved animal best friend almost lost and the neighbor who couldn’t see beyond his greed.

Mahler Harris lyrically recounts the true story of Smokey, a one-eyed horse who was found lying on the ground of his farm by a neighbor who had sinister motives—the expansion of his property into a new mall: "That horse is done in for, never get to his stall. If I get that pasture, I'll build a new mall." He tried to convince the mother to put the animal down to the dismay of the children. It took the magic of music to bring the old horse around and at once he began to sway and dance: "The old horse did listen and circled the farm. Moving and swaying, he danced into the barn." Soon the animal started to heal, and the townspeople became enamored of the sweet horse, including the local football team, who fixed his barn so he wouldn't be injured when he danced. Smokey began to draw a crowd of fans who came from all over to see this remarkable animal. To keep their beloved pet happy, the family kept music playing all day and night, the happy horse never fell ill again, and the angry neighbor's dreams of monetary success were shattered. Mahler Harris tenderly teaches young readers the true meaning of friendship and loyalty, even when a situation seems all but lost. Lemaire's illustrations complete the tale, sweetly bringing to life the beloved animal without putting off readers throughout some of the story’s darker parts.

Though it begins quite dark, this winning tale quickly moves forward to reveal a touching story about a family who would do anything to save their beloved horse.