"He isn't like other ponies," explained Roxy, so excited that she couldn't talk fast enough. "He can dance, and run on three legs, and walk on two feet."

But the pony only nibbled the grass by the roadside and swished his tail. Not in any way did he show Roxy's father and mother what a wonderful pony he was.

"You must be mistaken, Roxy," Said Mrs. Hatfield. "You must have imagined it all."

At this, Roxy shook her head. She knew that it had happened. She knew very well that she had not made a mistake.

When a friendly, clever pony named Calico arrives at their farm, Roxy and Oliver couldn't be more delighted. Every day becomes an adventure with their pony, the townsfolk, and the other farm animals. Whether they are wheeling about town in a little green cart, delivering Christmas to home-bound neighbors, or making daring rescues in the midst of dangerous weather, Calico keeps the children entertained with his astonishing stunts. Where did Calico learn his tricks? And how can Roxy and Oliver make sure he will be theirs forever?

From The Good and the Beautiful edition