Royalty has always allured us. But could you imagine horses matching up to us in that league? Well, at least ponies do. And this is a story of royal ponies in the city of Chevalia and Pippa MacDonald, the human girl. Their island is in trouble and they in turn are in trouble too. Eight of the golden horseshoes that go a long way beyond adorning the bare wall in their courtyard are missing. If they are not found before nightfall of the Midsummer Day, then not only would the ponies lose their magic, but they would also end up losing the island.
All hopes are pinned on Pippa and she is trusted with a special responsibility. She had vowed to find and return them in time for their magical journey to be renewed. Though she finds five of them, the fact that there is still three more to go, with hardly any time at hand, was killing her. She is soon introduced to Peggy, the mysterious flying horse who then takes Pippa in search of the missing golden horseshoes. Pippa is let in on the history of the island and how and why Peggy flies.
Pippa is later introduced to the Royal Pony family which offers to help her as much as they could. A series of activities, some mishaps, some twists and turns and an ending you did not bargain for, awaits all those who want to ride with Pippa and Stardust.
All high A fairy tale around ponies, a world of magic and beautiful illustrations weaves a sense of belonging even for a reader that stays till the end. Chloe Ryder’s narrative form gains pace and you just cannot wait to get to the end. The book makes for an easy read and what you will really love is the horseshoe that encircles each number. The royal foal and their well-etched character sketches makes you want to befriend them even more. And even when the story ends, make sure you don’t miss reading the exclusive interviews, notice, a report and Pony care tips.
Princess Ponies: An Amazing Rescueby Chloe Ryder, Bloomsbury, Rs. 299
