Title: The Red Pony
Author: John Steinbeck
Publication Year: 2011 (audio) (1933-novel)
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Edition: audiobook
Reader: Frank Muller (okay)
Source: Library
Date Completed: September/2012
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: yesJody Tiflin is only 10 year's old when his father surprises him with a pony which he names Giliban. Jody develops a bond and a sense of responsibility with Giliban and then something happens to the pony, which leaves Jody with feelings of sadness, anger and even rage. Jody's trust in Billy Buck, the horse trainer is tested as Billy lead the boy to believe the horse would be okay. Jody takes his anger out by injuring small animals -- this was very hard to read.
Believing another colt for Jody might be the answer that will help heal, Jody gets to witness the birthing process, but yet another tragedy occurs, and although the colt survives, Jody seems to have no interest in it.
It's a story that reflects life's early heartaches that are experienced by many young, vulnerable children.
John Steinbeck’s The Red Pony is an incredibly sad coming of age story. It's the kind of story that will leave readers who are looking for a happy ending disappointed, but in classic Steinbeck style it's though provoking and easy to understand why it is a staple in many school curriculums. The audio book reader was Frank Muller, his affect was a bit dry but yet somehow still appropriate for this story.
I really much prefer a happy ending.
ReplyDeleteI haven't read this, at least I don't think so. I'm not sure I've read any Steinbeck, for some reason I know we didn't in high school. I may have to check this one out.
ReplyDeleteI keep hearing how good this is, but also how sad. The problem of "sad story involving an animal" means that I probably will not ever read this one, as much as I appreciate the artistry of Steinbeck!
ReplyDeleteI don't think I ever read this one but I do remember reading The Grapes of Wrath and what an impact it had on me.
ReplyDeleteI somewhat sadly came to the conclusion that Steinbeck was the writer for my early years but not now. I was so sure I'd read him again but after years of looking at the books, I donated them to the library. It's a relief in a way. I just don't like his subject matter anymore.
ReplyDeleteI actually haven't read this Steinbeck one, but I know it is a classic. Perhaps, when I am up for a sad read.
ReplyDeleteI've never read this one - in fact, until the past few years, I'd never read any Steinbeck. Liked Of Mice and Men a lot, did not like The Pearl at all so I'm on the fence about Steinbeck. This one might swing me to read more.
ReplyDeleteLoved this story and it is screaming to me for a re-read!
ReplyDeleteGood for you for choosing books that force you to feel the good and the bad. I love a happy ending, but I need to be willing to take some risks.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds brutal!
ReplyDeleteI don't remember having to read this one. Thank goodness.
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