Dickens & Rumi
Cover of A HORSE NAMED SKY

book

A HORSE NAMED SKY

Rosanne Parry

The coming-of-age story of a young colt named Sky. (Ages 8 to 12)

Ages 9+Source checked

Why this age? The adventure and historical dangers may be emotionally intense at times, but the prose and themes are generally suitable for middle-grade readers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age9+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Death of a character2/5
  • Religious themes2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Diverse representation4/5
  • Good role models4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

Loss is a central theme in the protagonist's journey and involves the passing of herd members.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

Lakota spiritual beliefs and cultural relationships with animals and nature are meaningful parts of the story, though religion is not its sole focus.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

The intensity stems from the constant peril of survival in the wild, including wolves or harsh environmental conditions.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Contains standard survival struggles in the wild, including conflicts between horses and interactions with predators, consistent with nature writing.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist shows immense bravery while navigating unknown territories and threats.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

The immersive perspective encourages readers to imagine the world from another creature's viewpoint.

Diverse representation4/5
Why this rating?

Lakota characters and culture are central, with Indigenous people portrayed as capable, connected community members with agency rather than stereotypes.

Educational value3/5
Why this rating?

Provides significant insight into horse behavior, ecology, and the history of the American West.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Shows the value of social bonds and cooperation within the herd.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Focuses on resilience, the importance of family, and respect for the natural world.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist models perseverance and adaptability in the face of significant challenges.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in A HORSE NAMED SKY would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in A HORSE NAMED SKY, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to get it

Find in a libraryBuy on Bookshop.orgBuy on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate and Bookshop.org affiliate, Dickens & Rumi may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

If you liked this

Try something nearby

Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

You’re hereA HORSE NAMED SKY
HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE (FULL-CAST EDITION)J.K. RowlingAges 12+HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCE (FULL-CAST EDITION)J.K. RowlingAges 12+HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX (FULL-CAST EDITION)J.K. RowlingAges 12+HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIREJ.K. RowlingAges 12+

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating