A picture book for young animal lovers introducing you to the Pentro horses. A call for a greener world comes in the form of this picture book about the Pentro horses of the Spoon-Shaped Valley. An Italian, endangered breed of horse, we see how the Pentro worked alongside people until the human population increased and tractors replaced the need for them to help in the field. After describing their previous idyllic life balanced with people and the nature surrounding them, there is a call to action for children to look after the world around them so that the Pentro horses can thrive once more. This is a sweetly illustrated book that will appeal to animal lovers while also spreading the positive message about looking after their environment. Although in this book it relates specifically to the Pentro, this message can lead to further conversations about keeping the environment clean for the animals and wildlife that might be more local to the reader. For young readers who love horses they may discover a new breed of horse to love. The text is gentle and rhyming, the rhythm of it may make it a suitable bedtime read. There are some words that are a bit more advanced so I think this book would be best suited for reading alongside parent or guardian. The colouring pages at the end are a nice idea and a way for the reader to continue to enjoy the story after the final page.
Pentro: Horses of the Spoon-Shaped Valley Synopsis
This finely illustrated story book is for children to enjoy while learning about the balance of nature through their new friends—the Pentro. These horses are a rare Italian breed raised on open land year-round in a valley surrounded by mountains. It’s a real place! The Pentro have lived in the same area in central Italy for over two thousand years, named after the independent Pentri tribe who fought against the Romans long ago. However, this book does not focus on the location. The story presented could be set anywhere. It was written so the noble horse could inspire children, sharing their perspective on nature’s marvels and the relationship between animals, plants, and humans. The vastness of the spoon-shaped valley is breathtaking by itself. Hills and high mountains encompass the area, giving a sense of seclusion from the rest of the world. A?river traverses its length, nourishing plants and animals, including exotic birds migrating from Africa. Here children can embrace nature to the fullest, eyeing colors of butterflies and flowers and listening to the buzz of insects, croaking frogs, and the greeting horse’s neigh. It takes a lifetime to learn the valley’s secrets. For children, it captures their attention and draws them into the joy of discovery. Amid the endless activities of Mother Nature, the valley is somehow overwhelmingly peaceful and brings tranquility to visitors. In this majestic setting, it is the noble Pentro that captivates visitors, young and old — a magnificent animal at work or play, snuggling with the herd or galloping for the sheer joy of its Independence. The Pentro’s beauty and strength is appreciated by locals who have benefited by their presence. This children's story highlights the horses’ valley home and their symbiotic relationship with humans. As an activity, coloring pages are provided following the reading.
