In the late nineteenth century, a horse named Jim Key made headlines for his ability to do math, identify colors, read, and spell. Just as astonishing—or unbelievable—to some was that Jim Key had been trained by a Black man. Bill “Doc” Key had a gift for working with animals and his approach had always emphasized kindness over cruelty. Emily Arnold McCully focuses on Doc’s love for animals and the close bond he had with Jim, who’d been born with twisted legs and a playful nature, in this captivating picture book history. Doc and Jim performed at fairs and carnivals and their achievements were met with amazement and appreciation, followed by skepticism. To counter the skeptics and the prejudice they faced, Doc invited a group of Harvard professors to test Jim, and newspapers carried the result of their conclusions: “Jim Key Educated by Kindness.” McCully’s author’s note provides additional background information on Doc and Jim (including a photo of the two) and addresses questions that still remain about how animal intelligence is defined and determined. (Ages 5–8)

In the late 1800s, former slave and veterinarian Bill "Doc" Key realized that his new foal, Jim, was no ordinary horse. Believing in the power of kindness and patience, Doc taught Jim to spell, recognize the primary colors, and even make change from a cash register!

Performing in shows across the country, Jim stunned audiences with his incredible skills. But when some people called Jim a fake, Doc set out to prove them wrong and to show the world that, thanks to the power of kindness and patience, Jim was truly a wonder horse.

Caldecott Medalist Emily Arnold McCully's account of this fascinating, true story comes alive in her striking illustrations.Wonder Horse is a 2011 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.