The Princess and the Pony

The Princess and the Pony

book

2015, Children's Books, Growing Up & Facts of Life

WISE
92%

WISE Score

4.8

Amazon

A pint-sized warrior, a round pony with a gas problem, and a battle that ends in a giant sweater-knit hug-fest.

Amazon4.8
Common Sense Media

Where to Read

Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased, but as an Amazon Associate, Screenwise earns an affiliate fee if you buy a book or game by clicking one of our links. We don't get any credit if you just Google it instead :)

Screenwise Verdict

This is the antidote to 'brain rot' picture books. It’s smart, it’s weird, and it doesn't talk down to kids. It takes the typical 'warrior' aesthetic and flips it into a story about vulnerability and cozy sweaters.

If your kid thinks princesses are just for tea parties, Pinecone will set them straight. It’s a 10-minute read that you won’t mind reading for the 50th time because the humor actually holds up for adults.

Age Fit

Perfect for the 3-to-7 crowd who are over the sparkles and want something with a bit more punch and a lot more laughs.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
92

It replaces the typical 'warrior' aggression with a focus on kindness and cozy sweaters. It's emotionally healthy without being preachy or saccharine.

Imaginative
88

Kate Beaton subverts every 'princess' and 'viking' trope in the book. The idea of a 'war pony' that is actually just a round, flatulent ball of cuteness is top-tier creativity.

Safe
98

It's a picture book with zero scary elements. The 'battles' are played for laughs and end in hugs. The only 'danger' is a bit of pony gas.

Enriching
84

It effectively teaches kids that being 'tough' isn't the only way to be valuable and that first impressions are usually wrong. It's also a great gateway into visual humor and comics.

Parent Info

Why It Might Be Great

  • Subverts the boring 'pretty princess' trope with a girl who wants to be a warrior.
  • Genuinely funny for parents to read aloud—the visual gags land every time.
  • Teaches that vulnerability and kindness are legitimate strengths, not weaknesses.
  • Kate Beaton’s illustration style is expressive, modern, and high-quality.

What to Watch For

  • The pony is definitely gassy; be prepared for the 'fart' talk if your kid is in that phase.
  • There's some mild 'warrior' posturing and talk of battle, though it's all very silly and non-violent.

Conversation Starters

  • "Why did the big, tough warriors actually want hand-knit sweaters?"
  • "Was the pony a bad gift just because he wasn't what Pinecone expected?"
  • "Can you think of a time when being kind worked better than being 'tough'?"
  • "What would your secret 'distraction' be if you were in a silly battle?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic