Misty of Chincoteague by Marguerite Henry has been on my “to-read” list for a long time. I like to use the Newbery Award and Honor books as a starting place when I’m looking for wholesome children’s books. And yes, I still read children’s books myself. I once worried to my mother that this meant that I was still at a child’s level of reading. She replied, “Good literature is good literature, age doesn’t matter.” Ah, that made me feel better. But you know, when it comes to books, there really is no “read-by” expiration date.

Misty of Chincoteague is definitely “good literature”. It’s the sweet story of a brother and sister who dream of capturing the mysterious horse they call “Phantom” on Assateague Island, off the coast of Virginia and Maryland. Together, they labor long and hard at odd jobs to save up the money to buy Phantom and train her themselves. When the long-awaited “Pony Penning Day” arrives, they are surprised when they see that Phantom is not alone – she has a beautiful colt with her. They name the little one, “Misty”. The story of Phantom and Misty is an engaging read, and the ending is just the way all books should end: just right.

Your children, grandchildren, and even you, will greatly benefit from this lovely addition to your reading list.