The Red Pony by John Steinbeck

This set of four somewhat interrelated stories or chapters forms a novella about Jody, a boy whose coming of age exposes him to the reality of suffering in this world. This book is not really for someone who loves horse stories nor for the faint of heart, and it may make you feel depressed and frustrated with the whole world. The writing and development of characters is excellent, but in the end, I am not really sure how I feel about this book, which is a brilliant look at the human spirit and what it means to live in the country as well as a hard look at suffering and maturing into adulthood.

Leatherby Libraries Call Number: PS3537.T3234 R4 1989 , 2nd Floor Humanities Library
Review submitted by Andrew Tessandori, Cataloging Assistant, Leatherby Libraries

Rating: Somewhat Recommended