Pony is an adventure narrative that mixes elements of the old west and magical realism in a coming-of-age tale. As the first book without factors and characters from the famed Wonder universe, it is a complete departure from the author’s usual style. This historical fiction heavily references aspects of 19th century America including the Civil War, daguerreotype photography, and money counterfeiting. The supernatural elements contribute to the main motif of lifetime connections that extend to non-human and ethereal beings. At the core, it is a tale about family, bond, and resilience in overcoming adversities and undergoing spiritual growth.
The story is set in 1800s Ohio and follows the twelve-year-old protagonist after a strange occurrence forces him to embark on a journey. After his father is taken by unknown horsemen, an Arabian pony that belonged to one of the men returns to their home. Silas sees this as a sign from his father to take on this challenging quest to find him and seek the truth. The darkness of the wilderness poses a challenge than never before as the young boy has to navigate the treacherous woods. This pushes him to a stage where he has to embrace bravery and confront the fear of the unknown. However, he is not alone; Silas is escorted by the ghost named Mittenwool and the pony as they encounter much more menacing things.
Akin to Telemachus—son of Odysseus—Silas has to grow up during the expedition of finding the father after failing to return home. The life-altering journey is about unlikely bonds and friendships that endure both ethereal and earthly tribulations. Moreover, the supernatural realism further goes to speak on the history of the indigenous people in America and the atrocities against them.
