The Mud Pony retells a traditional Skidi Pawnee story about a boy who feels invisible in his village until he shapes a pony from river mud and wishes it to life. When war and separation come, the boy and his pony must rely on each other and on guidance from the natural world. Cohen’s retelling keeps the language simple enough for young readers, while Begay’s paintings give the plains, sky, and horses a strong sense of movement and weather. It’s a quiet, steady story about belonging, courage, and listening closely to what you’ve been given.

WHY WE PICKED IT
Because it brings a specific Pawnee story to early readers in a respectful, visually rich way. The Mud Pony is a strong pick for families and classrooms looking for Indigenous tales that center a Native child hero and take his inner life seriously.

DETAILS
• Author: Caron Lee Cohen
• Illustrator: Shonto Begay
• Publisher: Scholastic Paperbacks
• Publication Date: August 1, 1989
• Format: Paperback
• ISBN: 9780590415262
• Ships direct from distributor in 3–7 business days