Justin Morgan Had a Horse by Marguerite Henry illustrated by Wesley Dennis*

 *Award-winning-Newbery Honor Book (1946)

I am amazed at how many excellent books I have NOT read! This book is an example of one that prompts me to think, "How did I miss this one?".

Ms. Henry relates the story behind the Morgan horse breed. In 1791 a school teacher (Justin Morgan) and his pupil, Joel Goss, walk a distance one summer to collect a debt from a farmer. To pay his debt, he gives Justin Morgan two colts. The littlest colt, Little Bub, seems like he will grow into an insignficant horse. Joel, however, perceives his potential and takes time to "gentle" him. 

A story full of hope that reinforces the importance of hard work and perseverance.

In the back Ms. Henry lists her primary sources that enabled her to write an accurate story.

*Highly recommend.

-Borrowed from the library.