Module 3: The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses: Written and illustrated by Paul Goble

Book Summary: 


In this moving story, a girl is always with the horses. Everyday, after she finishes her work, she spends time with them. One day, she becomes missing... Where has she gone? Does her tribe find her? ... The story is based on a Native American legend. For anyone who loves horses or is interested in Native American folklore, this book is a real treat. 


APA Reference: 


Goble, P. (1993). The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses. New York : Aladdin Book. 


My Impressions: 


This book is not just a book. It represents a way of life. I have been engaging in a lot of outside research on shape-changing myths, such as those in native american cultures, celtic mythology, in terms of the selkie, ancient Norse and Eygpytian gods and goddesses, Freya and Ra, and Japanese cultures, such as the Kitune fox-woman. This book gives an account in which the girl changes into a wild horse at the end. It made me cry, it is so beautiful. 


Professional Review: 


  "In this Caldecott Medal book, Goble tells the story of how a girl so loved horses that, according to this Native American legend, she eventually became one. Beautiful, bright color illustrations on every spread expand upon the spare, but effective text. A true delight for those who love folklore and horses. The text closes with two Native American songs celebrating horses. 1993 (orig. 1978), Aladdin, $16.00 and $5.99. Ages 5 to 8."


Courtot, M. (1993). [Book review of the book The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses by Paul Goble]. Children's Literature Independent Information and Reviews. Retrieved from Children's Literature Database via Ebscohost:  http://libproxy.library.unt.edu:2378/cgi-bin/member/search/f?./temp/~NMz3DG:3


Library Uses: 


For reading this in a library, it would be fun to sing the songs in the back of the book at the conclusion of the reading, as there are two Native American songs about horses there. The librarian could bring a small drum and use that to make a beat. The multimedia system could be set up and have Native American chants in the background.

To extend that, the kids could share stories about their favorite horses and also, draw pictures of their horse, if they have one. Alternatively, they could bring photos of their horse to share with the other children.