Horse & Pony Factfile: An Essential Guide to the World of Horses and Ponies
Grade 4-8–First published asThe Kingfisher Illustrated Horse and Pony Encyclopedia(2004), this edition is smaller and perhaps easier to hold or carry to the barn. With the exception of a new cover photograph, the content and even the number of pages is practically identical to its predecessor. The book is well organized into sections on breeds; how to keep horses healthy, clean, sound, and fit; types of tack; basics of riding in an arena and on the trail; and participating in equestrian shows. Coverage of these topics is brief but accurate. Safety is emphasized throughout. Each page is punctuated with several beautiful full-color photographs.  The overall quality of the illustrations, pleasing text placement, and information sidebars make this a suitable purchase for most collections. Although much more succinct, it compares favorably to Elwyn Hartley Edwards'sThe New Encyclopedia of the Horse(DK, 2001).–Ann Robinson, Moultonborough Academy Library, NHCopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.