Wish for a Pony: A Romney Marsh Story
#1 in Romney Marsh (Publication Order) Series
What’s inside...
Wish for a Pony is the first book in the Romney Marsh series by Monica Edwards. It introduces the characters of Tamzin Grey and Rissa Harmond, two young girls who share a deep love for horses. Set in the idyllic English countryside of Romney Marsh, the story follows Tamzin's longing for a pony of her own. Despite the financial difficulties her family faces, Tamzin remains hopeful and determined. With the help of Rissa and other friends, she embarks on various adventures and schemes to raise money for her dream. Along the way, the girls learn valuable lessons about friendship, responsibility, and the importance of working towards one's goals. The book is a heartwarming tale of aspiration and the joys of rural life, especially for those who cherish the bond between humans and horses. At the beginning of the holidays, Tamzin's white arab horse Fallada, existed in a picture on a calendar, and her friend Rissa's mount was a bicycle. The long excited summer which this book tells about, stretched ahead of them. At first there were only the Dunsford Dairy ponies to be ridden to the forge or old Twinkle to be fetched up from her field for the local farmer; but through an accident they meet the owner of Hillocks stables, who, in exchange for their help in grooming the ponies, cleaning the tack and carrying pails of water, lets them learn to jump, ride in a gymkhana, gallop on the sands, or swim the horses in the sea. So much happens and there is so much to do that they cannot often find time to walk with their eyes shut through the wishing gate making their usual wishes; but when school looms near again, at least one of these often repeated ones, proves not to have been in vain.
Character compass
Tamzin Grey
Meryon Fairbrass
Discussion points
What did you think about the friendship between Tamzin and Rissa? How do they support each other throughout the story?
If you had a wish for a pony like Tamzin, what would you name it and why?
How did the setting of Romney Marsh add to the adventure? Can you imagine other adventures that might happen there?
What are some of the challenges Tamzin faces and how does she overcome them?
What did you learn about horses and caring for them from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create an open and relaxed environment for the discussion, perhaps starting the conversation during a shared activity like drawing or while on a walk.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story, asking questions like what they would do in similar situations.
Ask your child to pick their favorite part of the book and explain why it stood out to them, fostering a deeper connection with the narrative.
Connect the story’s themes to your child’s experiences, such as friendships, dreams, and adventures, to make the story more relatable and meaningful.
Discuss the moral lessons in the story, encouraging your child to express their thoughts on right and wrong and how they would apply these lessons in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Determination
Explanation: The protagonist works tirelessly to achieve her dream of owning a pony, showcasing resilience and dedication.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of working hard towards their goals and not giving up, whether it's in academics, sports, or personal hobbies.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Owning and caring for a pony teaches the young characters about daily responsibility and the importance of caring for another living being.
Real-World Application: This can instill in children the value of being responsible for their own pets, chores, or duties in a family or school setting.
Example Lesson: Friendship and Cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters work together and support each other, emphasizing the power of friendship and collaborative effort.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these principles by working cooperatively in group settings, whether in classroom projects or in playing sports.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The characters frequently deal with challenges and obstacles that require creative solutions, highlighting the importance of thinking critically and solving problems.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to apply problem-solving skills in their daily life, from resolving conflicts with siblings to managing schoolwork challenges.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The rural setting and animal care elements of the book help children appreciate the environment and promote a respectful attitude towards nature.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to participate in environmental conservation activities, such as recycling or caring for plants and animals.