Horse Diaries #15: Lily
#15 of 16 in Horse Diaries Series
on Goodreads (163)
What’s inside...
In the latest installment of the Horse Diaries series, readers are introduced to Lily, a strawberry roan Welsh pony with a passion for Pony Club competitions in South Wales, 1939. As Lily and her rider, Gwen, triumph in various events, a new rival, Bridget, arrives from London to escape war bombings. Despite Gwen's attempts at friendship, Bridget's sour attitude and skilled riding with her horse, Bron, create intense competition for Lily and Gwen.
Character compass
Lily
Miss Lucy
Simeon
Ebony
Discussion points
How do you think Lily felt when she faced challenges? Can you relate to any of those feelings in your own life?
What can we learn about friendship and trust from Lily’s relationship with her rider?
Do you think horses and humans understand each other? Why or why not?
What does this story teach us about overcoming fears and trying new things?
If you were Lily, what would you have done differently in any of the situations she encountered?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare and contrast their own emotions and experiences with those of Lily, fostering emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
Discuss the importance of relationships and trust, using Lily's interactions as a reference point to talk about their personal relationships.
Explore concepts of empathy and understanding between species, which can lead into broader discussions about compassion and communication.
Utilize the book’s theme of overcoming fears as a way to discuss any current fears your child might want to talk about, providing reassurance and support.
Prompt your child to think critically by asking what they would do in Lily’s hooves, which enhances their problem-solving skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: In 'Horse Diaries #15: Lily', Lily, a young horse, experiences various challenges and interactions with other animals. Through these encounters, children see the importance of understanding and kindness towards others, regardless of their situations.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to be considerate and empathetic towards their peers and animals, understanding their emotions and situations.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Lily learns to take care of herself and her friends in different scenarios throughout the book. This teaches children the value of taking responsibility for their actions and their impact on those around them.
Real-World Application: Kids can take on appropriate responsibilities at home like cleaning up toys after playtime or taking care of a pet, understanding that their actions contribute to the well-being of their environment and those they care for.
Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Lily faces various obstacles and challenges bravely. This narrative allows children to understand the importance of facing fears and the growth that comes from it.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to face their small, daily challenges bravely, whether it's trying out a new activity or standing up for what is right, demonstrating courage in their lives.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: Lily develops significant relationships with other characters in the book, showcasing the importance and impact of friendship.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate the role of friends in their lives, encouraging them to build and maintain positive relationships with their peers.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: Lily makes mistakes as she grows and learns from them, an important aspect depicted in the book. This helps children understand that it is natural to make mistakes and that they are opportunities for learning and growth.
Real-World Application: Children can be taught to accept their mistakes, learn from them, and move forward without judgment, applying this understanding in school and while interacting with others.