 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Paint the Wind
- By Pam Munoz Ryan
- Genre: Literary Fiction
Common Sense Media says
Horse tale shines with rich plot and characters.
Parents say
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this book has some intense scenes that may upset younger or more sensitive kids, but none are graphic, many are kept to very brief descriptions, and, for the most part, everything turns out all right in the end. Most of the story takes place in Wyoming, so the harsh realities of the wilderness are prevalent. There's also a relatively descriptive account of a horse giving birth that could raise questions.
What's the story?
Life hasn't been easy for 11-year-old Maya -- orphaned at 5, she lives in a tawny California mansion with her overbearing grandmother who detested Maya's horse-loving mother. But a tragic event changes everything. Maya is whisked off to Wyoming to live with her mother's relatives, whom she's never met and, due to her grandmother's lies, she actually fears.
Maya struggles to adapt to her new family and living in a rustic camp, but her love of horses -- the strongest connection she has with her mother -- makes living in a teepee and dealing with her bratty cousin a little easier. Maya learns to ride and slowly comes out of her shell, embarking on a journey of self-discovery that leads her to a beautiful, wild horse named Artemisia. With Artemisia by her side, Maya will face the unfathomable.
Is it any good?
Award-winning author Pam Muñoz Ryan paints vivid images of wild horses and western landscapes in this tale about a young girl who must adapt to a brand-new life. It's hard to imagine any horse-loving child disliking this satisfyingly complete story, and the rich plot and character development are likely to captivate young readers who aren't horse-obsessed, too.
The main character's story is interspersed with segments written from the perspective of the wild horse, Artemisia, and Ryan's thorough research on the region and wild horses is evident. Ryan is a masterful writer who deftly handles dialogue, detailed descriptions, action scenes, and plot and character development, and she's achieved another winner in PAINT THE WIND.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about how Maya changed once she left her grandmother's home and moved to Wyoming. How did Maya's new family, and the rough conditions of the horse camp, help her grow as a person? How did her relationship with Artemisia help her feel closer to her mother? What do you think the future holds for Maya?
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AGE
attention catcher
This is a beautifully written story that will capture your attention and your heart.
The author's style allows you to feel the relationships between all characters. Her descriptions of the elements and terraine allow you to visualize the story as if seeing it on film. When I finished the story, I felt as though I had seen the movie. For more information, visit this site: *://personalmoneystore*/Personal-Loans/personal-Loan/
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Kid, 12 years old
September 3, 2009
AGE
perfect for 10-13 year olds
omg i entervewed 298 people on the book only one did not like it. great for horse people.
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Kid, 11 years old
December 1, 2011
AGE
This is a wonderful book with a great message!!
I have just started the book and already I love it!! I think it is suitable for kids ages 8+. I also think it has a good message that you can trust animals and things because they can protect you in the tough times cause they know how even when we don't. I love this book and I am not even half finished!! Would so reccomend it!! You can't miss it!!
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AGE
First book that ever made me cry!!!
In my whole life I have yet to come to a book that can even match this one! The way the author describes the ghost horses is amazing. The little girl in the story amazes me with how clever she is, even though she has a diabolical mind. I love this book to the moon and the stars and back again!!!
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AGE
Wonderful for all ages!
I loved this book. This book was kind of sad but in the end, it was wonderful! It's worth reading for sure! The only thing that is violent is a colt killed by a mountain lion. Other then that, it is perfectly fine. You could even skip that part if you are reading it with a young one and it wouldn't make a difference. I really recomend this book!
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AGE
You Should Read "Paint the Wind".
I loved the book, Paint the Wind, if I could set an age range for this book I would say it is suitable for people age 9 and up. This book is funny, but it is also sad, for example it was really sad when the colt got killed by the mountain lion. It’s probably best to skip that part if you are reading it with a younger child; it wouldn't make much of a difference. This book is absolutely perfect for kids who love horses. This book is very detailed; when I read it I thought I was watching a movie. It was AWESOME!!!!!!!
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AGE
I loveeeee this book so much! Its so madly addictve but tho at some times i got a little bored but im farther into the book now so its way better! im a horse lover so i loveeeee this book! So beautiful!!!!
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| Author: | Pam Munoz Ryan |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Literary Fiction |
| Publisher: | Scholastic Inc. |
| Publication date: | September 1, 2007 |
| Number of pages: | 327 |
| Hardcover price: | $16.99 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 7 - 11 |
| Read aloud: | 7 |
| Read alone: | 7 |
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