📖 Overview
Harry has an invisible horse living in his room - a horse that only he can see. His parents accept this special friend, allowing Harry to keep hay in his room and leave the door open at night so the horse can visit the kitchen.
The story follows Harry's experiences with his horse companion and how this relationship affects his daily life and interactions. When Harry faces a key situation at school, his connection to the invisible horse becomes particularly important.
This children's book explores imagination, friendship, and the bridge between a child's inner world and reality. The narrative demonstrates how supportive parents who honor their child's imagination can help build confidence and emotional security.
👀 Reviews
Readers recall this book from their childhood with fondness, based on reviews across multiple platforms. Parents note it helps children with imagination and pretend play.
Readers liked:
- The black and white illustrations
- Short length for beginning readers
- Message about parents accepting children's imagination
- Horse character appeals to animal-loving kids
Readers disliked:
- Limited availability of new copies
- Some found it dated compared to modern picture books
- Print quality in newer editions
Ratings:
Goodreads: 4.07/5 (82 ratings)
Amazon: 4.7/5 (15 ratings)
Sample review: "I remembered this book from childhood and bought it for my daughter who loves horses. The story is simple but sweet. The illustrations may seem basic by today's standards but they get the point across." - Amazon reviewer
"This was one of my favorites as a child. The idea of having an imaginary horse in your bedroom is magical." - Goodreads reviewer
📚 Similar books
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
A boy's imagination transforms his bedroom into a magical world filled with creatures.
Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson A child uses his crayon to create an imaginary world that he explores throughout his bedtime adventure.
Not Now, Bernard by David McKee A child encounters a monster in his house while his parents remain oblivious to the situation.
There's a Nightmare in My Closet by Mercer Mayer A child confronts the monster in his closet and discovers it isn't as frightening as imagined.
The Tiger Who Came to Tea by Judith Kerr A tiger visits a young girl's house and shares an unexpected afternoon with her.
Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson A child uses his crayon to create an imaginary world that he explores throughout his bedtime adventure.
Not Now, Bernard by David McKee A child encounters a monster in his house while his parents remain oblivious to the situation.
There's a Nightmare in My Closet by Mercer Mayer A child confronts the monster in his closet and discovers it isn't as frightening as imagined.
The Tiger Who Came to Tea by Judith Kerr A tiger visits a young girl's house and shares an unexpected afternoon with her.
🤔 Interesting facts
🐎 Though invisible to everyone else, Harry's beloved horse Bubble creates real hoofprints in the carpet and leaves actual hay scattered around the room
📚 Author Jane Thayer wrote over 40 children's books during her career, including several other popular titles like "The Popcorn Dragon" and "Andy and the Lion"
🏠 The story addresses common childhood experiences like imaginary friends and the challenges of moving to a new home
✏️ The original illustrations were created by Seymour Fleishman, known for his distinctive mid-century modern style and use of limited color palettes
🌟 Published in 1962, the book remains in print today and is often used in elementary schools to discuss themes of imagination, friendship, and dealing with change