Wonder Horse: The True Story Of The World's Smartest Horse

In the late 1800s, former slave and veterinarian Bill "Doc" Key realized that his new foal, Jim, was no ordinary horse. Believing in the power of kindness and patience, Doc taught Jim to spell, recognize the primary colors, and even make change from a cash register!  

Performing in shows across the country, Jim stunned audiences with his incredible skills. But when some people called Jim a fake, Doc set out to prove them wrong and to show the world that, thanks to the power of kindness and patience, Jim was truly a wonder horse.

Caldecott Medalist Emily Arnold McCully’s account of this fascinating, true story comes alive in her striking illustrations.

Wonder Horse is a 2011 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.

Emily Arnold McCully is the author and illustrator of many unforgettable books, including the Caldecott Medal-winning Mirette on the High Wire, Marvelous Mattie, and Manjiro.  She divides her time between New York City and Chatham, New York.

“This book is sure to grab young readers…. McCully’s signature watercolors make this title as beautiful as it is fun to read, and its humane message is an important one” — Starred, School Library Journal

“Caldecott Medalist McCully’s storytelling is as sensitive, engaging, and well paced as her brightly colored, expressive artwork, which highlights the period setting as well as the remarkable friendship between man and horse…A winsome celebration of an extraordinary man and the immeasurable effects of kindness.”— Starred, Booklist   

“Young animal lovers will appreciate this as a readaloud as well as a readalone” —The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

“In McCully's signature watercolors, Doc and Jim become livelier versions of their portraits in a reproduced photo, while the pre-industrial setting and its rural inhabitants are realized at their bucolic best.” —Horn Book Magazine

“McCully’s liquid illustrations make this book a delight to look at and invest Jim with considerable personality.” —Kirkus Reviews

Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)
Distributor: MPS
Publication Date: 06-22-2010
Pages: 32
Measurements: 11.290in X 8.890in X 0.385in X 0.890lb