Dusty - A pony, a boy and a dream....

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When a young boy finds solace in his new friendship with an abandoned pony, he manages to escape the demons of his abusive home life.

 

Dylan Evans is an ordinary boy with an extraordinary spirit, growing up on a council estate in a small Welsh town. Life isn’t easy—his home is chaotic, money is tight, and his dreams often seem out of reach. But everything changes when Dusty, a scruffy, spirited pony, trots into his life. Dusty becomes Dylan’s anchor, his escape, and his greatest joy in a world that often feels overwhelming.

When Dylan is cast as the Angel Gabriel in the school nativity, it feels like a chance to finally stand out for something other than his troubles. But as he prepares for the big night, Dylan starts to uncover family secrets that threaten to unravel his sense of identity. Through it all, Dusty becomes more than just a pony—she’s a symbol of freedom, a reminder of resilience, and a bridge to a future Dylan never dared to dream of.

Funny, heartwarming, and deeply moving, Dusty is a coming-of-age tale about love, family, and the unexpected ways we find our strength. With Dusty by his side, Dylan discovers the courage to shine—both onstage and off—and to embrace the messy, beautiful truth of who he is.

Perfect for fans of The Boy at the Back of the Class and The Unforgotten Coat, this unforgettable novel will make you laugh, cry, and believe in the transformative power of friendship—whether it comes in human or four-legged form.

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Dusty is Craig Ryder's first novel.