Rated ★★★★★ by Readers’ Favorite. When a young horse and a little girl fascinated by the stars above are brought together by a bit of fate and one shooting star, nothing can keep them apart. Cheryl Olsten tells the fanciful and delightful tale of a young horse in Belgium and a little girl living in America who are brought together by a bit of fate and a shooting star. When Ella’s parents send her … her to live with her great-aunt in the beautiful Kingdom of Belgium, she becomes lonely and lost. Not far away lives an equally lonely young horse, the smallest in the stable. Little Feat, as he will be known, longs for a forever friend. When Ella and Little Feat are brought together, their devotion to each other grows. Their awe and love of the night sky with sparkling stars and constellations takes them on a journey that will change their lives forever. Big Wishes for Little Feat is a wonderful tale that will ignite the imagination with its rich, colorful illustrations by award-winning Italian illustrator Paolo d’Altan. Central to the book’s charm is the imagery of stars and constellations to which a little girl and her horse both look for inspiration, confidence, and faith in themselves, as they learn how to turn disappointments into achievements. A quirky aunt adds to the fun of this tale of happy endings and new beginnings. For young girls who love animals with a special fondness for the magic of horses. Cheryl Olsten was formerly the publisher of two New Jersey Magazines, New Jersey Life and New Jersey Life Health and Beauty. She resides in Pennsylvania with her husband, while their grown children are living their happy lives on different parts of the globe.
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I love children’s picture books, but I loved them with substance, Big Wishes for Little Feet gives me that and so much more!
Cheryl Olsten brought to life a vivid story of finding happiness right where you are planted, of never giving up even when things do not go your way, and that there is joy in the midst of sadness. I LOVED Lafitte and his story of perseverance. The narration was done beautifully (emphasized by the fantastic illustrations) and I enjoyed getting to watch him grow up. I also liked Ella’s story and how they intertwined together. I think there are a lot of kids who can relate to Ella and her family situation. I especially liked how Cheryl Olsten explained the phonics to say Ella’s nickname from her father Brilliant étoile. It was a fun interactive part of the story; plus, it reinforces dual language learning.
“Little Feet, thought the horse. That is who I amxad—a horse of great courage, strength, and skill.”
Paolo D’Altan’s work in this book is phenomenal. He truly conveyed the wonder and curiosity displayed by Ella and Lafitte and told their story in a colorful and eye-catching way. I want some of the pictures to hang in my home! As I look back over the story, I am again amazed by all the detailed work that went into this book and I am looking forward to showing my niece this book over Christmas to see which picture is her favorite. Well done Paolo D’Altan!
A definite 5 out of 5 stars for me! Some great themes combined with a good flowing storyline and some great imaginative art.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
Oh my, I’m not sure if I can write the words that this beautiful little story deserves. It made me feel like a little girl and I couldn’t read it fast enough. But…I did stop and slow down. That’s because of the fitting and pretty illustrations.
This is not just a beautiful story. It is short and distinct enough to keep a child’s interest. I’m supposed to say this is a children’s book but I enjoyed it and I’m OLD now:)
What a nice gift for a child of 5or 6 and up to read or for a parent to read to a child of any age.
Not my usual read, but it sounded interesting. This was the tale of a small horse with big dreams and a little girl who wants something of her own. The stars and fate brought them together. This was a positive story for children on a topic of being different and patience. It was an easy to read story, and I loved the illustrations as they were so pretty.
I received a copy of this story through Goddess Fish Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
I absolutely LOVED this book!!!
This book is captivating, inspirational, uplifting, encouraging, and heart-warming!!!
This is a story about Lafitte De Muze, a foal who grows up to be still much smaller than the other horses. He was able to run fast and jump and he practiced all the time, but he still didn’t grow or get any bigger. At the age of four his owners decide to sell him, but no one chose to buy him. He continues to feel sad, disappointed, and discouraged, but his parents keep reminding him how special he is, to keep his head held high, and never stop believing.
This story also follows Ella, a young American girl who is sent to Belgium to live with her Great-Aunt Anastasia, as her parents struggle financially. It isn’t long before Ella feels sad and lonely in an unknown country thousands of miles away from her parents. Thankfully, Great-Aunt Anastasia quickly picks up on Ella’s withdrawn morale and she whisks her away to Bonnerville Stables for a horse sale. Ella falls instantly in love with Lafitte and her Great-Aunt purchases him for her. Ella changes her new best friend’s name to Little Feat, her magical horse – as feat means great courage, strength, and skill – it was truly fitting for this very special new friend.
There are so many invaluable life lessons, important morals, and positive messages throughout the story!!
This book should be on EVERY girl’s bookshelf!!
This book is a rewarding read filled with strong, enriching social behavior and developmental goals!!
I am a HUGE animal lover – especially horses (I used to ride and my cousins have stables) so I couldn’t wait to read this book and I am so thrilled that I did as it did not disappoint!!
The story line intrigued me, the writing style captivated me, and the storytelling kept me glued to the pages!!
I love the positivity, the never give up, and always believe in yourself mantras. These messages are extremely important to convey and teach to young children.
I can easily see children pulling the, “please… just one more page…” line on this book as it is hard to put down!!
I also loved the illustrations!! They are so beautiful, delicate, and detailed. I enjoyed following along watching the pictures all tell their story.
I think many kids will be asking for horses – or at least riding lessons after reading this book lol!!!
All in all, I really enjoyed reading this book and would absolutely recommend it! I think all children’s readers and animal lovers will like this book too! So, add it to your TBR List and get to reading – you won’t be disappointed!
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book and have voluntarily provided an honest, and unbiased review in accordance with FTC regulations.**
Cheryl Olsten’s Big Wishes for Little Feat is such a beautiful and magical tale. I really enjoyed reading this cute book. I loved every single page and enjoy the beautiful, colorful and vibrant illustrations, as well.
I am giving Big Wishes for Little Feat a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for young readers, especially for those horse lovers.
I received Big Wishes for Little Feat from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.