Misty of Chincoteague
Recommended. Age: 9+. A Catholic review of this book for parents.
Our review
Two children work and save to earn a pony, and then let the mare go free because that is what is good for her. That is love as the will for another's good, told without a sermon. The one reservation is pace. It moves slowly for children raised on modern action.
For parents
Read aloud from 6, independent reading from 9. The children's parents are away and grandparents raise them. Maureen hears 'that's because you're a girl' more than once, so say a word about it. Ask why Paul lets Phantom go after working so hard to get her. Ask what the children gave up to earn the money.