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By Lettie Teague
Although beloved children’s book author Marguerite Henry wrote fifty-nine books, a surprisingly small number of them—just five—were made into movies. When a reporter for the Carpentersville, Illinois, Cardunel Free Press (January 1968) declared, “So popular are Mrs. Henry’s books with young people of all ages that motion picture producers vie for the privilege of bringing them to the screen,” that assertion owed more to hyperbole than fact. The five books that made the transition to the screen included
Although it didn’t come close to equaling the popularity of the book, the Misty movie, produced in 1961, proved tremendously popular for many years. The film was directed by James B. Clark (who also directed the much-beloved Cary Grant/Deborah Kerr tear-jerker An Affair to Remember, among other films). The Misty movie possessed several advantages when it debuted, the most important of which was the still-living real pony (although Misty was too old to star in the film), and then of course Marguerite, who was not only present at the filming, but also promoted the movie at every turn. In one such effort, Marguerite wrote a piece entitled “Misty Makes the Movies,” published in Junior Libraries, where she marveled at the production that she flew down to witness firsthand. There were three hundred extras (mostly Chincoteaguers) and one hundred and fifty ponies, plus the famed horse trainer Les Hilton “who can run as fast as the ponies he trains,” Marguerite wrote. “I listened spellbound to the jargon: Quiet! Roll it!”
The movie starred David Ladd, son of the much more famous actor Alan Ladd, who later became an MGM film executive. Filmed on location, it was less than a masterpiece with often stilted dialogue and pretty low-wattage drama. In perhaps the strangest twist of all, the pony that played Misty wasn’t even a pinto pony but a very pale palomino. With all the ponies in the world, it was hard to believe that the filmmakers could not find a pony that at least slightly resembled Misty.
Marguerite was quite disappointed by this fact and made her feelings known on more than one occasion. By contrast, she was thrilled by the performances of David Ladd as Paul Beebe and Pam Smith as Maureen Beebe. “They are not acting at all. Each rides like the wind, each has loved a special pony and lost it in death. Their laughter and their tears are real. And they even look like Paul and Maureen!” Marguerite declared.
It was another six years before a book by Marguerite was turned into a movie again. This time it was Brighty of the Grand Canyon (1967), directed by Norman Foster, who was then famous for directing Davy Crockett and Charlie Chan movies. But it was the film’s producer, Stephen Booth, who was responsible for bringing Marguerite’s book to the big screen. In an interview with John Bustin, entertainment editor of The Austin American-Statesman (June 8, 1967), Booth recounted how his wife Betty bought a copy of Brighty for their three young sons and how they read it aloud. All five Booths were entranced by the story.
Booth wanted to make the book into a movie but was convinced that Disney owned the screen rights. “But I kept thinking about a movie of the book, so I finally wrote Rand McNally to see who owned the rights and found out, to my amazement, that they still did,” said Booth.
The problems began when Booth decided that in order for the film to be as authentic as possible, they needed to do all of the filming on site at the Grand Canyon. This made the film complicated—and quite expensive as well. Everything had to be brought into the canyon by muleback or helicopters, and they had to film in all four seasons, so the crew worked in blazing heat and during blizzards, in just a few months’ time. The unpredictability of working with animals was a complicating factor as well. “I don’t know that I’ll necessarily go after more animal stories,” said the chastened Booth. And he did not. Brighty was his first and last production. The real-life Brighty (aka Jiggs), who starred in the film and was well-supplied with his favorite peppermints throughout the screening, went home to Marguerite and later to the home of “Tex” Drexler, where he remained the rest of his life.
Although Justin Morgan Had a Horse was Marguerite’s first full-length book, it was her third book-made-into-a-movie, specifically a Disney made-for-television movie that debuted in 1972. The movie rights had actually been acquired years earlier by Disney veteran producer Harry Tytle, but Walt Disney, who had been working with Tytle, died quite suddenly in the middle of the film’s development, and it had to be shelved (Atlanta Constitution, February 6, 1972).
The star of the movie was Don Murray, an actor later best known for his role on the long-running soap opera Knots Landing. Murray played Justin Morgan and his love interest was played by Lana Wood. Never mind that such a character didn’t exist in the book, but then she didn’t get much of a role in the movie either. Gary Crosby, son of Bing (and a horseman), played a supporting role. The film was billed as “an inspirational story with wide appeal for both children and adults” that depicted an all-American story of the hardships and triumphs of Justin Morgan (schoolmaster) and his horse. The movie received generally good reviews, although, like Misty, it wasn’t near the equal of Marguerite’s book. (The slow-motion scenes of the racing Figure are arguably some of the best scenes in the film.)
The next Marguerite book-made-movie was another made-for-television special, although the movie had a different name than the original edition of the book (San Domingo). Peter Lundy and the Medicine Hat Stallion (1977) was the creation of famed producer Ed Friendly, who had several hits to his name, including Little House on the Prairie. (A later edition of the book matched the name of the film.)
Peter Lundy was played by the then-fifteen-year-old heartthrob Leif Garrett, who was a major teen star in the 1970s and had already appeared in several films and television shows. Garrett was soon to embark on a singing career, and the movie was originally intended to be a pilot for a television series, which Garrett hoped would help further his musical career. Sadly, the network declined to commission the series, and the first Peter Lundy TV movie was also the last.
Although Marguerite’s story of San Domingo had been set in Nebraska Territory, the movie was filmed on location in New Mexico, where Garrett, who did all his own riding in the movie, told an interviewer, “I like horses a lot and can ride fairly well,” which must have pleased Marguerite. The movie received generally positive reviews and was considered a boon for Garrett’s career, which sadly soon derailed in a battle with drug addiction and alcohol abuse before the star finally got sober as a much older adult. On a happier note, the horse that played San Domingo won a Craven Award, named for Richard C. Craven, the first director of the American Humane Association. The award is given to animals who have a special ability or talent. (And notably, unlike the Misty pony of that movie, the San Domingo television character looked like the horse that had been drawn for the book.)
Perhaps it was fitting that the book that many believe to be Marguerite’s very best was the last time her work would be translated into a film. Filmed in England and Turkey, the King of the Wind movie (1990) was produced by a consortium of no less than seven men, including Peter Davis (best known for the Highlander films). It costarred Richard Harris and Glenda Jackson with Navin Chowdhry as Agba. It was directed by Peter Duffell, who also directed another great horse-centric classic, The Adventures of Black Beauty, a series that ran for two years (1972 to 1974). King of the Wind was screened in very few theaters in the United States and seemed to disappear altogether soon after it was made.
Nine years before King of the Wind’s eventual theatrical release, Marguerite had written a letter to the King Brothers film production company (October 7, 1981), offering to pay the company twenty-five thousand dollars to buy back the rights to King of the Wind, which it held at the time. (She eventually paid thirty thousand dollars.) As to her percentage of the film’s profits, Marguerite’s reply to King was a disheartening reckoning of just how far from a windfall her experience of turning her books into movies had been. “I’ve had only four films based on my books, and in each case (Disney, 20th Century Fox, Booth Productions and NBC) it was break-even. One of the previous four I was ‘out of pocket,’” she wrote.
This excerpt adapted from Dear Readers and Riders: The Beloved Books, Faithful Fans, and Hidden Private Life of Marguerite Henry is reprinted with permission from Trafalgar Square Books (TrafalgarBooks.com).
Dear Readers and Riders: The Beloved Books, Faithful Fans, and Hidden Private Life of Marguerite Henry
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This excerpt from Dear Readers and Riders: The Beloved Books, Faithful Fans, and Hidden Private Life of Marguerite Henry is reprinted with permission from Trafalgar Square Books. Visit them online at Horse & Rider Books. All photos courtesy of Horse & Rider Books.
There a more really interesting books on riding and all aspects of equestrian living in our section on Books.
Kentucky’s deep equestrian roots make it one of the best destinations for horseback riding enthusiasts. This Bluegrass State offers diverse trails ranging from peaceful, scenic paths in state parks to adventurous routes across its rolling hills. Exploring Kentucky on horseback not only allows riders to connect with nature but also showcases the state’s rich history in the equestrian world.
Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area offers over 180 miles of horseback riding trails, making it a paradise for riders seeking various terrains. Riders can enjoy forested paths, riverside routes, and open spaces, making the journey diverse and scenic.
With well-maintained trails and campgrounds designed for horses and riders alike, this park is an excellent choice for those seeking longer rides. Riders have the chance to explore both easy and challenging trails, making this location ideal for all skill levels. Big South Fork truly delivers an unforgettable riding experience.
Mammoth Cave National Park boasts more than 70 miles of backcountry trails open to horseback riders. These trails range from flat and relaxing paths to more challenging routes, offering riders the opportunity to navigate the dense forests surrounding the world’s longest cave system.
The park’s Cedar Sink Trail provides a mix of wooded areas and open clearings, creating a beautiful balance for riders who appreciate variety. For those who want to experience Kentucky’s natural beauty while riding through historical landscapes, Mammoth Cave National Park is a prime location.
Land Between the Lakes (LBL) spans 170,000 acres between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, offering 100 miles of equestrian trails. Riders can explore open fields, lakefront paths, and wooded trails. With ample camping options, including facilities specifically for riders and their horses, LBL is a must-visit destination for multi-day riding adventures.
The Wrangler’s Campground at LBL is renowned for its amenities and easy access to the trails, catering to both beginner and advanced riders.
Known for its stunning sandstone arches and unique rock formations, Red River Gorge offers a different kind of adventure for horseback riders. Though it’s more popular with hikers and climbers, equestrians can explore designated trails that wind through the rugged terrain. With challenging paths that test even the most experienced riders, Red River Gorge is a fantastic destination for those looking to push their skills.
The Gorge’s breathtaking views make every ride worthwhile, with moments of serenity interspersed with thrilling climbs.
The Daniel Boone National Forest covers over 2.1 million acres and features approximately 600 miles of trails. Many of these are multi-use trails accessible to horseback riders. The Sheltowee Trace Trail is one of the forest’s highlights, extending over 300 miles through the heart of the forest.
Riders can expect a blend of easy-going paths and more technical routes. The forest’s diverse flora and fauna provide riders with a scenic and immersive natural experience that brings Kentucky’s beauty to life. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill offers a unique horseback riding experience with 3,000 acres of preserved farmland and over 33 miles of trails. As riders explore this historical site, they can enjoy scenic views of rolling hills and preserved Shaker architecture. Shaker Village is perfect for both casual riders and history enthusiasts who want to combine their love for riding with an educational experience about Kentucky’s Shaker communities.
With over 28 miles of equestrian trails, Green River State Park is a more tranquil option for riders looking for a peaceful ride through meadows and along the Green River. The trails are mostly flat and easy, making them perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxing outing. Riders can also take advantage of the park’s camping facilities, which are equipped to accommodate both riders and their horses, offering a serene retreat in nature.
Taylorsville Lake State Park features 24 miles of multi-use trails that run alongside the lake and through forested areas. These trails provide a mixture of scenic water views and shaded, wooded paths, making the ride visually engaging and enjoyable for both beginner and experienced riders.
With a dedicated equestrian campground, Taylorsville Lake State Park is a favorite spot for horse enthusiasts who want to combine a love of nature with their riding adventures.
Cave Run Lake is not only known for its water-based activities but also offers riders several trails that wind through the Daniel Boone National Forest. The Big Cave Run Horse Camp offers a convenient starting point for riders looking to explore the area.
Trails here range from easygoing rides along the lake to more challenging routes through the surrounding hills and forests. For those looking for a mix of water views and dense woodland, Cave Run Lake offers a well-rounded experience.
Enhance your adventure with DraftKings Kentucky, where you can engage in betting opportunities that complement your love for equestrian activities.
As you explore Kentucky’s stunning horseback riding trails, you can also partake in exciting betting options, adding a new layer of engagement to your outdoor experience.
Kentucky offers a wealth of horseback riding trails that cater to riders of all levels, providing both scenic beauty and adventure. Whether you prefer a relaxing ride through meadows or a challenging trek through rugged terrain, the Bluegrass State delivers an unforgettable experience.
There are more informative articles in our section on Recreation & Lifestyle.
Julie Goodnight shows you Danger Zones when working around the horse.
Read more: Danger Zones with Julie Goodnight and Christy Landwehr
By the EIE Editorial Staff
Owning a horse is undeniably rewarding, but it can also be expensive. Here are some strategies to help manage rising costs.
Remember, the goal is to find a balance between enjoying your horse and managing costs effectively. It might require some adjustments, but with careful planning, you can continue to enjoy your equine companion.
You can find more interesting stories in our section on Recreation & Lifestyle.
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