Reviews!

“The book, Penny the Shy Pony was a joy to read and would be great to share with the children in my classroom. There are many things that are in the book that helps children become engage with the story. The children can join in a shared reading by helping to name where Penny hides because she does hide in a lot of spaces. Plus the topic itself is a great one to discuss with children and this book serves as a great segway to discuss different strategies on how to build our self-confidence and the different things that can be done to invite a new friend to play. 

“This book has lovely illustrations and excellent use of repetition. It will primarily appeal to children 4-6 years old. I would recommend the book for classroom use and to read at home with children worried about upcoming changes.” 

– Jodie Rennie 
Teacher

This is a beautiful story about celebrating differences. Moreover, this story is relatable to children of all ages. 

– Bonnie Rogers
Teacher

A sweet, gentle story about accepting who you are told through the lens of ponies on a farm. Young children 4-7 years old will be drawn in by the increasingly silly hiding places where Penny the Shy Pony tries to hide. Partin leads the reader all over the farm with wonderful illustrations of a partially-hidden pony, inviting them to linger and laugh at each silly spot. Nice repetition (“But Penny was shy so she continued to hide.”) will engage and prompt the coveted page-turn to find out where else Penny can be found. The happy ending will delight and inspire the young ones. 

– Patricia Franz
Writer

“Penny the Shy Pony is a very cute picture book. Having been a very shy child I definitely identified with the fear of letting others see the real me. I think many children would identify with Penny’s feelings. The only thing I could identify as something that may bother some people would be the way Penny is identified as being shy rather than feeling shy. It’s like shyness is her identity and isn’t something that can change. Other than that it seems like a delightful children’s story.“

– Kathleen Gonzales
Teacher

“Penny feels different from the other ponies. She is a master of disguises and hiding spots. In particular, she hides her head and neck. In the end, the other ponies are delighted to see her and accept her for who she is. No reveal in this review but she is lovely and finds her courage to join with the other ponies.
Readers can engage by making guesses as to why Penny feels different. Adults can discuss finding courage and being happy with who we are.”

– Pam

What makes this book special or stand out from its competition?
“This book has a great message for children, especially those who are introverted.”

What are your thoughts about the illustrations? Do they help enhance the story? Why or why not?
“The illustrations go well with the story and would likely make children laugh.”

Would you consider adding this to your classroom, library or buy it as a gift for someone else?
“This book would be great for my school counselor. I could see her using it in small groups or one on one sessions with children who are working on being more confident.“

– Kimberly Lauer
Teacher

“Penny the Shy Pony is a delightful read for all ages since the message Kim is clearly illustrated and told in fantastic prose. The message is cleverly weaved into the story to create intrigue at a simple level for young children to understand. Her illustrations are cute and beautifully portray the ponies as well as the main character who has a secret beyond being shy. This mystery, once revealed, is extremely dynamic to make the story magical with a fantastic ending. I highly recommend the book because the story’s message is one that we all must keep in our hearts and minds to face the challenges in life. Helping a young child understand this important concept at an early age will instill great everlasting character.”

-Joseph Cassis
Author

“Sweet, compassionate book addressing the near universal worry of being perceived as different and fear of being unworthy and thereby rejected. Penny is shy because she IS different. Her difference makes her special. Children will love how she camouflages herself to somehow still be a part of the group of ponies. Her efforts will prompt giggles. This endearing story will please young children and early readers. Parents may get a tad tired of the repetition in the book but know that repetition is good for young readers. Is it a book to add to your library? Yes!”

-D.L. Murphy
Teacher/Author/Parent

“This book shows children that it is ok to be different than others and shine! I cannot wait to order a copy and read it to my classes.”

-Karen Brinkmann
Librarian Media Specialist

“I would recommend this book for social emotional learning. This book has repetition which allows the students to help the teacher read it. The illustrations go along with the author’s words and would help students read.” 

-Brenda Green
Teacher

“This story is a sweet reminder of how what makes us different is often what makes us beautiful. The repetition could be beneficial for younger readers and likely will engage them, however it could use some paring down. The farm illustrations are sweet and the style will please readers that enjoy simplicity and the charm of unicorns. I think an animated story would be cute for younger readers as well.”

-Paris Bone
Teacher