Muck and Magic
by Sir Michael Morpurgo, illustrated by Olivia Lomenech Gill
Interest age: 6 to 11
Reading age: 7+
Published by Walker Books, 2019
About this book
Bonny wants to be a world champion cyclist when she is older, so trains every day. After falling off her bike while speeding through the Dales, she notices that she is being observed by three magnificent horses. Mesmerised by their grace and beauty, she plans her future training routes to ride past their field, often stopping to say hello and give them treats.
Over time, Bonny forms a strong bond with the majestic animals, and is delighted when their owner Lizzie offers her a Saturday job in the stables. She spends blissful weekends mucking out the horses and helping sculptor Lizzie in her studio, marvelling at her ability to create spectacular works of art. All the while, Bonny conceals her new life from her parents, fearing they will be disappointed if they learn her focus is shifting away from cycling.
Illustrated throughout with exquisite drawings and beautifully atmospheric paintings, this touching tale about an intergenerational friendship unfolds at a gentle pace. Inspiring young people to follow their dreams and make the most of their natural talents, it poignantly demonstrates how seemingly minor events can have life-changing effects.
About the author

What to read next
We know that children can get hooked on a favourite book series or author and struggle to find something they love as much, but we’re here to help.
-
Sir Michael Morpurgo is a legend in children's literature - but what should you try when you've read all of his stories? We've got some ideas, and we want to hear your thoughts too...
More books like this
-
Cobweb
by Sir Michael Morpurgo, illustrated by Michael Foreman
9 to 12 years
-
When Fishes Flew
by Sir Michael Morpurgo, illustrated by George Butler
9 to 12+ years
-
A Song of Gladness
by Sir Michael Morpurgo, illustrated by Emily Gravett
4 to 9 years
-
War Horse (Tom Clohosy Cole)
by Sir Michael Morpurgo, illustrated by Tom Clohosy Cole
6 to 12 years