The Princess and the Pony

Beaton – who has a marvellous talent for capturing nuances of facial expressions in an exaggerated cartoon style – makes Penelope look deeply nonplussed at the barbarian’s cuddliness. […] Children’s books in general, and The Princess and the Pony in particular, seem to have a more mature sense of the way that strength can mean not the biggest gun, but the cutest sweater. -- The Guardian Online * The Guardian Online *
A late addition with big potential, Jon Klassen’s tagline sums it up rather perfectly: “Heart, wisdom and a farting pony.” The deadpan humour is a treat, and it certainly hits the picture book jackpot of making children and adults laugh. * The Bookseller Children's Buyer's Guide *
Beaton is one of the sharpest, funniest comics creators in the business. Her witty, take-no-prisoners feminism is absolutely on display here, but she doesn't go for an easy girl-power resolution: instead, she lets everyone be both a badass and a sentimentalist. The spreads in this are amazing: the giant fight scene and the warriors in their sweaters? Perfection. It is the perfect, perfect book about girls, gender roles, and adorable ponies. -- Cory Doctorow * Boing Boing *
The Manga style cartoon illustrations are wonderfully expressive and filled with hilarious details, while the daft story has a logic all of its own. Princesses, let alone their ponies, are not normally like this! -- Andrea Reece * Love Reading 4 Kids *
Fall in love with a teeny-tiny, roly-poly, cutie pie of a farting pony in this wickedly funny tale for young children […] Brave Viking warriors and big surprises abound in this warm-hearted tale that’s sure to make both children and adults roar with laughter. * Primary Times *
This hilarious story is wonderfully illustrated in a quirky and whimsicle style. It’s perfect for reading aloud and is sure to engage kids and grown-ups alike. * Inis Reading Guide *
I suspect this one will become a much-requested book in early years settings and infant classrooms: certainly children will love the comic style art work and the determined little warrior princess, but it’s most likely to be the pony that steals the show. * Red Reading Hub *
Beaton, with her background in comics, has a hilarious, fresh style. Her superhero warriors (many of whom are women) are wonderful, her colours are quirky and pacing is perfect. * Children's Books Ireland *