Foregrounding a Black child who navigates fear and longing around riding a horse, Starling Lyons and Lewis spin an affirming story about self-paced courage that grows through determination, gentleness, and support. Young Dom is intimated by horses big bodies, big legs, and big teeth. . . . Dom quietly admits wanting to ride but feeling scared. Time spent listening to relatives steady reassurance and brushing Magics stardust coat help Dom gather confidence. . . . When Dom finally mounts, the childs Ba-bum pulse matches the horses rhythmic Clip-clop, signaling a triumph rooted in connection rather than bravado or pressure. Luminous watercolor illustrations with prominent brushwork emphasize scale, light, and expression, capturing the protagonists vulnerability and growing resolve. Its a patient portrait of bravery found through self-attunement. Publishers Weekly
Dom longs to ride like confident big sister Leah and Uncle Blue. But the horses seem so large, so intimidatingtheir big bodies, big legs, and big teeth are unsettling. . . . When Dom confides in Magic, the ebony horse with a coat that shines like its covered with stars, he seems to understand. . . . With encouragement from the rest of the family and time spent brushing Magics stardust coat, Dom builds the courage to mount. . . . Celebrated artist Lewis renders this tender journey in watercolors that realistically capture the peaceful rural setting and the majestic horses, as well as Doms trepidation and growing confidence. The illustrators compositions include shadowy, dream-rendered spaces and sun-drenched fields. The paintings soft washes and glowing light create an atmosphere of warmth and safety, while Lewis skillful handling of Doms perspectiveshowing Dom on the ground against the landscape, then triumphant atop Magicvisually reinforces the youngsters achievement. Lyons interplay of Doms heartbeat (ba-bum) with the horses hoofbeats (clip-clop) provides a satisfying rhythmic thread. A heartening, beautifully illustrated testament to patience, trust, and burgeoning courage. Kirkus Reviews
