Emily and the Spider: A gentle pony tale of courage, care, and confidence

Spring has arrived in Looe — and everything is beginning to grow.

Book 5 in the Emily series, by Claire Hall. As May unfolds by the harbour, Emma’s days are filled with ponies, family, and the familiar comfort of her coastal town. The pleasure boats return, Pony Club evenings stretch longer, and the world feels brighter. But alongside the excitement come worries too — school pressures, unexpected fears, and the quiet challenge of growing up.

When a sudden scare during a Pony Club ride leaves Emma shaken, her calm pony Emily shows her something important: bravery doesn’t always mean moving forward. Sometimes it means standing still.

Through family traditions, a joyful day out, gentle countryside work, and moments shared side by side with friends, Emma learns that big feelings don’t need to be rushed away. They can be noticed, understood, and held — just like she is by the people who love her.

This gentle, reassuring pony story explores:

• Emotional resilience and quiet confidence

• Worry, fear, and learning to feel safe again

• The steadying power of animals and routine

• Family, friendship, and community support

• Growing up at your own pace

With its warm Cornish setting, relatable childhood moments, and nurturing tone, Emily’s May Adventure is perfect for children who love ponies, animals, and stories that reflect real feelings and everyday bravery.

The book also includes thoughtful Pony & Feelings pages and a Note for Parents, Carers, and Teachers, making it a valuable and comforting read for shared storytime, independent reading, or classroom use.

A calm, hopeful story for children navigating change — and a reminder that sometimes the bravest words of all are:

“Can I go again?”