A HORSE NAMED FUNNY CIDE

Sally Jenkins’s adult book, Funny Cide, is well adapted for young readers with Moser’s art, but a rather long text for a picture book. From his birth as a smaller-than-average Thoroughbred foal, Funny grows into a promising young horse that runs faster than anyone expected. He comes out of nowhere to win the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness—but it’s the applause he gets when he loses the Belmont that shows just how much people had grown to love him. The text barely touches on Funny’s unconventional owners, but details some of the health problems he overcame. Moser’s vibrant illustrations, often set dramatically on clean white space, beautifully covey Funny’s athleticism and grace, and add interest to the story. (Look for a grumpy Moser self-portrait.) Will appeal to horse fans of all ages. (Picture book/nonfiction. 5-9)