Mini Whinny: Goody Four-Shoes

This is a sweet little story with the two main protagonists being miniature ponies: Mini Whinny and Goody Four-Shoes. All the characters are animals, with the cat Berenice, being the voice of reason in contrast to Mini Whinny’s emotional outbursts. The story begins with the arrival of Goody Four-Shoes, who as her name suggests, is good at everything AND beautiful and kind. Mini Whinny, who is more of a comic turn, feels very left out and acts accordingly. Themes of jealousy and friendship are dealt with in a gently humorous way and although Mini Whinny is chastised for her poor response to the new pony, she is also able to achieve redemption by the end of the story.

The illustrations greatly enhance the narrative, with Ruth Paul being particularly skilled in creating expressive faces. You are never in any doubt as to how Mini Whinny is feeling and even the way her body is drawn expresses great feeling. The cover has an interesting texture and the raised silver horse shoes will invite young children to touch and engage with the book.

Title: Mini Whinny: Goody Four-Shoes

Author: Stacey Gregg

Illustrator: Ruth Paul

Publisher: Scholastic

ISBN: 978 1 77543 538 9

RRP: $19

Format: paperback picture book

Date of Publication: 2019

Ages: 3 upwards

Reviewer: Carola Crawford, English teacher, Karanga Mai Young Parents’ College

How are you recommending this book? Highly Recommended

Opening Sentence: The arrival of the horse truck caused quite a commotion at Blackthorn Stables.

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