From School Library Journal
Grade 3-5?When Lily tries to catch her mare for an after-school ride, she discovers that something is seriously wrong. A visit from a veterinarian shows that Beware has colic. When pumping a mixture of mineral oil and water into the horse's stomach fails to clear the blockage in her intestines, it looks as though expensive and dangerous emergency surgery may be the only thing that can save her. Lily and her grandfather have difficult decisions to make. Haas's realistic description of colic, with its many different symptoms, conflicting theories on treatment, and unpredictable outcome, will pique readers' interest and concern. The plot takes off from the first page and maintains intensity right until the end, helping even reluctant readers stay with the story. Manageable chapters and succinct sentences make this title, along with Beware the Mare (1993) and A Blue for Beware (1995, both Greenwillow), appropriate additions to the slim selection of quality titles in this genre.?Christina Linz, Alachua County Library District, Gainesville, FL
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Gr. 2^-5. Lily's horse Beware comes close to dying in this illustrated chapter book, a sequel to Haas'
Beware the Mare (1993) and
A Blue for Beware (1995). When Beware is in pain and refuses to walk, Lily calls a vet, who diagnoses colic. Through two cold nights and a day, Lily watches Beware, walks her, and worries that she may not make it. Written with many sensory details, the present-tense narrative has a compelling sense of immediacy. Lily, Beware, Gramp, Mom, and the two doctors all come across as believable individuals rather than stock characters. Lily's emotions come through so clearly that readers, even those new to the series, will find themselves caring about Beware as well. Although most beginning chapter books rely on humor to draw readers, this short novel deals with a serious topic. The format and vocabulary are accessible to relatively young readers, but older children will also find this a rewarding book.
Carolyn Phelan
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.