Families who loved The Lonely Pony by Jeanne Betancourt often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with feelings of isolation or is witnessing a peer being left out and wants to help. It is a perfect choice for young animal lovers who are transitioning to independent reading and need a story that validates their empathetic instincts toward others. The story follows a group of friends who notice a new pony, Acorn, is struggling to adjust to life at the Pony Hall stable. As the girls work together to figure out why Acorn is lonely, they model proactive kindness and the importance of observation and patience in building new relationships. The emotional themes of belonging and loyalty are handled with a gentle touch, making it highly appropriate for children aged 7 to 10. Parents will appreciate how the book encourages children to look past surface behaviors to understand the deeper needs of those around them, whether they have four legs or two.