The Little White Horse

In this beloved classic, 13-year-old orphan Maria Merryweather moves to Moonacre Manor in 1842 England, a place brimming with charm, mystery, and a deep, underlying sadness. She quickly discovers an ancient curse and a long-standing feud between two families that has plagued the valley for generations. With the help of magical animals, a kind uncle, and her own determined spirit, Maria embarks on a quest to right historical wrongs, reunite lost loves, and bring peace back to Moonacre. This low fantasy tale, praised by J.K. Rowling, explores themes of courage, family, destiny, and the power of a single individual to make a profound difference. It's a heartwarming adventure perfect for readers transitioning to chapter books or as a read-aloud.

In 1842, thirteen-year-old orphan Maria Merryweather arrives at Moonacre Manor, her family's ancestral home in an charmed village in England's West Country, and she feels as if she’s entered Paradise. Her new guardian, her uncle Sir Benjamin, is kind and funny; the Manor itself feels like home right away; and every person and animal she meets is like an old friend. But there is something incredibly sad beneath all of this beauty and comfort, that shadowing Moonacre Manor and the town around it. Maria is determined to learn about it, change it, and give her own life story a happy ending. The enchanted valley of Moonacre is shadowed by a tragedy that happened years ago, and the memory of the Moon Princess and the mysterious little white horse. Determined to restore peace and happiness to the whole of Moonacre Valley, Maria finds herself involved with an ancient feud, and she discovers it is her destiny to end it and right the wrongs of her ancestors. Maria usually gets her own way. But what can one solitary girl do? A new-fashioned fantasy story that is as wonderful as the best classic fairy tales. (The 1994 mini-series "Moonacre" and 2008 movie "The Secret of Moonacre" and the are both based on this book.)