The Snow Pony

A parent might reach for this book when their family is navigating financial stress or environmental hardship, and their child needs a story that acknowledges their worries. The Snow Pony follows a young girl named Dusty, whose family's farm is suffering under a relentless drought, causing tension and despair at home. Dusty finds an escape and a source of strength when she discovers and tames a wild brumby (a wild horse). The story beautifully illustrates how a bond with an animal can provide comfort and build resilience in the face of circumstances beyond a child's control. It’s an ideal choice for showing a child that their anxieties are valid and that hope can be found even in the toughest of times.