Neighs and norms: societal messages in children's horse literature

Representations about horses are widespread in our culture, however, there is not much literature focusing on what messages narratives of horses are sending. As children are being socialized into society media plays a part in the process of how they obtain their values and ideals. Using some literature from the equestrian community and qualitative coding, this study conducted preliminary research on what messages horse books are sending children. It examined six books, National Velvet, Horse Crazy, My Friend Flicka, The Black Stallion, A Horse Called Wonder and Misty of Chincoteague. Results show messages of power and control, embodiment, dreams, and gender.