Spirit: Stallion on the Cimarron (Picture Book) (Dreamworks)
Grade 2-4-This rather old-fashioned, action-packed tale will keep readers riveted even if they have seen the movie. Spirit is a larger-than-life, four-legged hero. From the time he is a colt, his brash curiosity and athleticism make him a standout, and eventually he becomes the leader of the Cimarron herd. However, that same curiosity brings about his capture by wranglers, who sell him to cavalrymen determined to tame him. With the help of an American Indian boy, he escapes and finds true love with Little Creek's mare, Rain, but his adventures and difficulties are far from over. This hooved Indiana Jones escapes danger at every turn and finally succeeds in returning to his herd, his life of freedom, and his true love. Scenes of galloping horses, an exploding locomotive, and Rain being shot during a cavalry raid on Little Creek's village fill some of the pages of this yarn. The illustrations have a Disneyesque feel as the two horses flirt with and seem to smile at one another; the colors of the paintings are appealing. The faces of both the four-legged and two-legged characters are expressive and sustain the excitement of this "superhero" story for those who just want an entertaining page-turner.Carol Schene, Taunton Public Schools, MACopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.