About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is beginning to ask questions about personal integrity versus following the rules, or when they demonstrate a deep, protective empathy for animals. Set in 1774 colonial Williamsburg, the story follows nine-year-old Felicity Merriman as she navigates the restrictive expectations of being a young lady while her heart pulls her toward independence and justice. When she discovers a beautiful horse being mistreated by a cruel tanner, Felicity must decide if she is brave enough to take a stand, even if it means breaking the law. It is a gentle yet stirring introduction to the American Revolution through the eyes of a relatable girl who values kindness over social conformity. It is perfect for ages 7-11, particularly for those who love animal stories but are ready for more historical and moral complexity.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
1. DISTRESS: The book depicts animal abuse. Jiggy Nye is shown as a cruel, neglectful owner who beats and starves the horse. While the descriptions are age-appropriate, the reality of the horse's suffering may be upsetting to sensitive children who are deeply attached to animals. 2. CONVERSATION: Parents should be prepared to discuss the ethics of civil disobedience. Felicity technically steals the horse to save it. This opens a conversation about when a 'bad' action (stealing) might be the 'right' thing to do to prevent harm. Also, be ready to explain the tensions of the American Revolution, specifically the Stamp Act and the boycott of British goods like tea.
Ideal Reader
An 8-year-old who feels 'fidgety' in structured environments or a child who has just started horseback riding lessons and wants to read about the bond between humans and animals.
Parent Prep
No specific page preview is required, but providing a brief overview of why tea was a 'political' drink in 1774 will help the child understand the social pressure Felicity's family faces. A child witnessing a neighbor mistreating a pet and wanting to intervene.
Age Experience
Younger readers (7-8) will focus entirely on the horse rescue. Older readers (10-11) will pick up on the parallels between Felicity's desire for independence and the colonies' desire for freedom from England.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many historical novels that focus on big battles, this uses the daily life of a young girl to mirror the macro-level themes of the Revolution.
Read plot summary
In pre-Revolutionary War Williamsburg, Felicity Merriman is a spirited girl who struggles with the sedentary tasks expected of her. She encounters a wild-spirited horse, Penny, being abused by the local tanner, Jiggy Nye. Felicity secretly tames and cares for the horse, ultimately helping it escape its abuser just as political tensions in the colony begin to rise.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Felicity's father says she must learn to be a 'gentlewoman,' but Felicity prefers to be outdoors. Do you think she can be both?
2
Why was Jiggy Nye so mean to Penny, and why was Felicity the only one who tried to help her?
3
Felicity had to keep her visits to Penny a secret. When is it okay to keep a secret from your parents, and when is it dangerous?
4
At the end of the book, Felicity chooses not to drink tea because of her beliefs. What is something you feel strongly enough about to give up something you like?
5
Is it ever okay to take something that doesn't belong to you if you are trying to save a life?
