Misty of Chincoteague
Summary
Misty of Chincoteague is a beloved children's novel by Marguerite Henry, first published in 1947. Inspired by real-life events, it tells the story of two siblings and their quest to capture a wild mare on Assateague Island. The novel has captivated readers for generations with its tale of determination, freedom, and the bond between humans and animals.
Plot
Misty of Chincoteague tells the story of siblings Paul and Maureen Beebe, who dream of capturing and owning the elusive wild mare known as the Phantom. This legendary horse, known for her speed and distinctive white “map” on her shoulders, has evaded capture during the island's roundups for two years.
Determined to make their dream a reality, Paul and Maureen work tirelessly to earn money to purchase the Phantom. Their opportunity comes on Pony Penning Day, an annual event where wild ponies are rounded up. In a surprising turn of events, Paul not only manages to capture the Phantom but also discovers she has a newborn colt by her side.
The siblings now face a new challenge—earning enough money to buy both the Phantom and her colt, whom they name Misty. The story follows their efforts to secure ownership of these two remarkable horses, intertwining themes of perseverance, love for animals, and the unique bond between humans and horses.
Themes
• Connection between humans and animals
• Determination and perseverance
• Freedom vs. domestication
• Family bonds and cooperation
• Coming of age and responsibility
• Respect for nature and wildlife
• Tradition and community values
Setting
Misty of Chincoteague is set in the mid-20th century, likely the 1940s, on the small barrier islands off the coast of Virginia and Maryland. The story primarily takes place on Chincoteague Island and the neighboring Assateague Island, both known for their unique populations of wild ponies.
Assateague Island serves as the backdrop for much of the action, with its windswept beaches, salt marshes, and untamed wilderness. This is where the wild ponies, including the Phantom, roam freely. The annual Pony Penning event, a real-life tradition dating back to the 1920s, plays a crucial role in the story's setting, bringing together the island community and visitors.
Chincoteague Island, where the protagonists Paul and Maureen live with their grandparents, represents the more settled, human-inhabited area. The contrast between the wild, natural environment of Assateague and the small-town atmosphere of Chincoteague provides a rich, multifaceted setting for the novel's events to unfold.
Characters
• Paul Beebe: A determined young boy who dreams of capturing the Phantom and her foal, Misty.
• Maureen Beebe: Paul's sister, who shares his passion for horses and helps in their quest to own the Phantom and Misty.
• The Phantom: A wild mare on Assateague Island, known for her speed and elusiveness.
• Misty: The Phantom's newborn colt, a silvery-gray pony that captures the hearts of Paul and Maureen.
• Grandpa Beebe: Paul and Maureen's grandfather, who shares stories about the Phantom and supports their efforts.
• Grandma Beebe: The children's grandmother, who helps care for them and supports their horse-related endeavors.
• Pony Penning roundup men: The group responsible for capturing wild ponies during the annual roundup on Chincoteague Island.
Quick facts
• Misty of Chincoteague is based on a true story of a real Chincoteague Pony named Misty.
• Author Marguerite Henry visited Chincoteague Island to research the annual pony penning event for the book.
• The novel won the Newbery Honor in 1948.
Wesley Dennis illustrated the original edition of the book.
• The real Misty was born in 1946 on Chincoteague Island, Virginia.
• Marguerite Henry later purchased the real Misty, who lived on Henry's farm in Illinois.
• The book sparked increased tourism to Chincoteague Island and helped popularize the Chincoteague Pony breed.
• A film adaptation of the book was released in 1961, starring David Ladd and Arthur O'Connell.
• The real Misty's hoof prints are preserved in cement outside the Chincoteague Town Office.
• Misty of Chincoteague was adapted into a 1961 movie, Misty.
• Marguerite Henry wrote several sequels to Misty of Chincoteague, including Stormy: Misty's Foal and Sea Star: Orphan of Chincoteague.
About the author
Marguerite Henry
Marguerite Henry (1902-1997) was an acclaimed American author of children's books. Her passion for writing emerged during a childhood illness that confined her to bed for six years, during which she discovered the joy of reading. While convalescing, she received a writing desk as a gift from her father, a publisher, and sold her first short story at the young age of eleven for twelve dollars.
Throughout her literary career, Henry wrote 59 books based on true stories of horses and other animals. Her most famous work, Misty of Chincoteague, published in 1947, became an instant success and was adapted into a movie in 1961. The author's dedication to her craft and love for animals earned her several prestigious awards, including Newbery Honors. Henry's books, such as King of the Wind, Stormy: Misty's Foal, and Justin Morgan Had a Horse, have enchanted generations of young readers. Henry completed her final book, Brown Sunshine of Sawdust Valley, shortly before her death at the age of 95.