The Colt from Old Regret

Dianne Wolfer (text) and Erica Wagner (illustrator), The Colt from Old Regret, National Library of Australia Publishing, April 2025, 48 pp., RRP $29.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781922507686

Inspired by Banjo Paterson’s The Man from Snowy River, this picture book is a retelling from the perspective of the beleaguered colt. Wolfer’s poetic words echo the lyricism of the original ballad but draw the readers’ sympathy for the hunted horses rather than their whip-cracking pursuers. I think this is a smart move for modern readers and children will feel for the horses that are mistreated by the stockmen.

In an author note, Wolfer mentions Paterson’s line, He was blood from hip to shoulder from the spur gave her pause and was the impetus for reimagining the poem from the perspective of the horse.

The book is sumptuously illustrated with Wagner’s water colour painting and collage. The colours beautifully capture the light of the Australian bush and movement of the brumbies.

The original poem is at the back of the book, along with back matter including a short biography of Banjo Patterson and an author note.

The Colt from Old Regret – Teachers’ Notes are available from the publisher’s website.

Reviewed by Heather Gallagher

 

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