Snow Pony and the Seven Miniature Ponies

In what might be a send-up of a popular entertainment franchise, Trimmer (Simon’s New Bed) retells the “Snow White” story with ponies in all the important roles. The story fits surprisingly neatly into its new form: “Once upon a time there was a pony who had a coat as white as snow and a mane as black as ebony.” In addition to being beautiful, Snow Pony hosts performances with her human friend, Charmaine, and Charmaine’s dog, Hunter. When jealous Queenie lures Snow Pony away from farm and stage and into the woods (using apples, naturally), she encounters the seven miniature ponies of the title. Rendered by Sima (Not Quite Narwhal), they’re a fresh upgrade from dwarfs; each is a different color, with forelocks that hang cunningly over their eyes, and each has a special role (“ ‘I gather water.’ ‘I take care of the bees.’ ‘I’m a tax attorney’ ”). The new ending trades princely kisses for a friendly reunion and an improved performance retinue. This book will top the pile of bedtime favorites in horse-loving households, with jokes thrown in for the grown-ups, to boot. Ages 4–8. Agent: Thao Le, Sandra Dijkstra & Assoc. (Aug.)