Belle's Journey by Marilyn Reynolds

Reynolds, M. (1993). Belle's journey. Victoria, British Columbia: Orca Book Publishers.

Summary

Belle is an old brown mare who isn’t able to do much on Molly’s parent’s farm except take Molly to Piano classes 8 miles away. On the way home one day, a blizzard begins. Due to the prairie landscape, there is no place for shelter and Belle must guide them both home.

Advisory Information:

-Themes:

a. Survivial: Belle’s Journey is about surviving both in a blizzard and in Canada’s prairie.

b. Unlikely Hero: Belle is portrayed as a worn out mare who might even be sold, however once she proves herself to Molly and Molly’s parents, Belle is able to live the rest of her life in comfort.
c. Determination: It can be assumed that Belle stays sure of her own knowledge to find her way home.

d. Trust: Molly must trust Belle in order to make it home safely.

Age Recommendation:

Belle’s Journey is a picture book for all ages. Parents would be able to read to it to their child.

Other Information:

Takes place in the Canadian prairies during the 1920s.

Awards for Belle's Journey include:
Henry Kreisel Award shortlist
CNIB "Tiny Torgi" shortlist
CCBC "Our Choice"

Reaction:

Belle’s Journey represents your typical children’s story of an unlikely character defying the odds and saving the day at the end. The book is slightly dated, however, and I do not know if children will pick up on some of the anachronisms of the 1920s. Children, though, will still enjoy the pictures and can identify with the plot.