Description

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One day Papa buys Bird, an old horse that can carry Archie and his brother to school every day. And the two boys are delighted with the gentle mare, which follows them around as they do their chores on the farm. It isn't long, however, before Bird reveals another side to her personality. Despite Papa's efforts to keep her out of the barn, Bird manages to open the latch and let herself in every time. And when she doesn't get her own way, Bird develops a habit of bucking off the boys along the trail to and from school. A despairing Papa finally decides that Bird has to be returned. There's no place on a farm for an animal that doesn't earn its keep.

But Bird isn't ready to leave. The stubborn old mare does have a place on the farm despite her age. All she has to do is seize the opportunity and show everyone what she's been capable of all along.

Based on a true story, Irene Morck's new picture book is a delightful tale that children will love. But it is the subtle, deeper message - old does not mean useless - which will have a lasting impact on readers of all ages. Artist Muriel Wood accompanies the text with exquisite paintings that are deeply colored and full of character, leaving their own heartfelt signature on this moving story.

A Finalist for 2004 Torgi Literary Award in the category of Tiny Torgi PrintBraille

About the Author

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Irene Morck is the author of five previous books including Tiger's New Cowboy Boots, Five Pennies and Apples and Angel Ladders. Her fiction and nonfiction have appeared in magazine anthologies and on the radio. She and her husband live on a farm near Spruce View, Alberta. Muriel Wood is the illustrator of Apples and Angel Ladders, Scared Sarah, The Olden Days Coat, Anne of Green Gables and Lizzie's Storm. Muriel lives in Port Hope, Ontario.