Reading Metrics
Description
Lily's greatest wish is to own a horse, but everything changes when Emily is diagnosed with polio and placed in an iron lung. Despite her intense jealousy, Lily helps Emily and, by doing so, makes a poignantly selfless gesture.
Quick Summary
Lily's dream of owning a horse takes a back seat when her best friend Emily suddenly falls ill with polio and must be placed in an iron lung, forcing Lily to confront her own jealousy and step up to help. Instead of wallowing in self-pity, Lily learns what it means to put someone else's needs first, and the story captures that shift with genuine heart and a few light-hearted moments that keep the tone from feeling too heavy. The small-town setting and the way the characters deal with illness, loss, and unexpected responsibility make the book memorable for anyone who's ever wanted something badly and then had to let it go. Kids who love horse stories especially those who enjoy classics like Misty of Chincoteague will find plenty to love, while readers looking for a moving friendship tale will be just as satisfied. Parents can rest assured that the book tackles a serious topic (polio) honestly but without graphic detail, making it a good conversation starter about empathy, perseverance, and dealing with change.