Some stories begin in the quiet places - where the wind moves through tall grass, and the hush of hooves against soft earth is the only sound for miles. The Mystery of Snowflake, the Unhappy Pony was born in such a place.

It began with my own memories - of a farm once alive with motion and muscle, filled with the rhythm of horses breathing through the seasons. There were sunrises that painted the barns gold, and ponies who stood watch from their stalls as if they were keepers of some secret wisdom. I’ve loved many horses in my life, but there was always something about the quiet ones - the ones who waited. The ones who seemed to carry stories in their eyes.

Snowflake is one of those.

This new children's book is about a pale white pony who stands in the same spot every day, looking off into the distance - not out of habit, but out of hope. A little girl named Lilly notices her from the window of her grandpa’s car, and what unfolds is a gentle mystery wrapped in compassion and determination.

As I helped bring this story to life with Dr. Pat Sanaghan, I was swept back to my own days on the farm. The early mornings, the feed buckets, the quiet brushing of manes before the world even stirred. I remembered the heartbreak of goodbyes - of horses sold, of friends who moved away, and of the animals who waited at gates long after someone was gone. That’s what Snowflake embodies: the quiet ache of waiting and the healing that comes when someone decides to care.

What makes Snowflake special isn’t just the story - it’s the spirit behind it. The story touches on something many children understand instinctively: the power of noticing, of empathy, and of action. Lilly doesn’t just ask questions - she searches for answers, she finds a way. She reminds us that small hands can make big changes, and that sometimes, friendship is the greatest gift we can give.

At Heartprint Books, we believe in stories that leave a mark - not just on the page, but on the heart. The Mystery of Snowflake, the Unhappy Pony is one of those stories. It’s for every child who’s seen someone hurting and asked, “How can I help?” It’s for every grandparent who’s watched a grandchild grow into kindness. And it’s for everyone who’s ever loved a horse… or been loved by one.

We can’t wait for you to read it - and to meet Snowflake for yourself.

With warmth from the barn and the bookshelf,

martha

farmgirl.storyteller.doglover

Heartprint Books