Brave old Blue

A weary horse finds peace during its first day settling into a new, safe home. With alert ears and downcast eyes, a reticent horse exiting a trailer is greeted by a red-headed child profering crunchy snacks and "a tender hello." Old Blue is "Unsure. / Alone. / Trying to be brave", and patient Bobby spends the day introducing the horse around her farm, where trepidatious Old Blue joins a proud history of horses among "So many rescues." Limited text, artfully formatted, incorporates horse terminology as Bobby guides Old Blue through the barn and fields: "Afternoon blankets the paddock" while "wind canters down the canyon." The soft artwork's tawny palette creates a warmly pastoral tone, and gentle characterization reiterates the story's comforting message. This reassuring rescue story is a tender pick for storytimes, and an author's note detailing the responsibilities of horse ownership and horse rescue organizations makes it an especially appealing addition for collections struggling to keep pace with avid young horse lovers. Welcome home, Old Blue.

An old horse gets a brand-new lease on life. Old Blue arrives at a horse rescue farm. Alone and uncertain, he's wary of his surroundings. A red-haired, pale-skinned young girl named Bobby welcomes him; he responds softly to her kind overtures and receives gentle scratches, fresh carrots, and a new blanket. Bobby also gives him a warm bath. Old Blue meets other horses who live at the farm: They whinny their welcomes, and he responds in kind. Then he and Bobby rest together. Old Blue begins to feel better, but when a strong wind blows, he's "alarmed. Unsettled. Afraid." When Bobby assures him he's safe, her words "soothe his troubled thoughts." Gradually, Old Blue feels stronger and more courageous. Nighttime finds him snuggled in "deep soft straw" in a cozy stall. After Bobby promises to see him tomorrow, smiling Old Blue realizes he's "home at last." Readers may realize--though it's never stated explicitly--that Old Blue's former life was likely difficult; he may have suffered neglect, abandonment, and even abuse. Though very gently written, this understated story expertly captures the horse's deep-seated anxiety and guardedness. Children will be heartened to realize that Old Blue will be treated with the loving attention he and all animals deserve. The illustrations are rendered in a very muted palette, mostly softly applied browns and tans, suggesting serenity. A heartwarming charmer. Readers will root for this horse all the way. (a message from the author)(Picture book. 5-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.