About the Book
A Brave Pony. An Enchanted Forest. A Friendship Worth Fighting For.
On Longview Farm, Starzy is no ordinary pony. She lives among talking animals, wanders beside an enchanted forest, and believes every day holds a little bit of magic. But when a mysterious light flickers deep in the woods one night, Starzy’s curiosity leads her on an adventure she never expected.
In the heart of the forest, she discovers Tommy, a lonely boy trapped in a castle by a wicked wizard. Determined to help her new friend, Starzy gallops home to gather her farm companions. Together, they hatch a daring plan filled with teamwork, courage, and just a touch of mischief. The journey will test their bravery and show them that even the smallest hero can make a big difference.
Perfect for children ages 5 to 12 who love fantastical adventures, Starzy and Tommy is a charming tale about friendship, kindness, and believing in the impossible. Young readers will cheer for Starzy and her friends as they face challenges, solve problems, and discover that helping others is the greatest magic of all.
Available everywhere books are sold on January 26, 2027
About the Author
Barton Drew Perkins was born and raised in Birmingham Alabama, where he grew up with a love for animals and reading. He attended Sewanee: The University of The South during his undergraduate years and graduated with a double major in studio arts and English with a certificate in creative writing.
After graduating college, Perkins worked in a public school in the DC area as part of an Americorp Program. While there, he was exposed to a lot of children’s literature, and started wondering if maybe he should take a crack at by writing a picture book.
After his stint in teaching, Perkins received an MFA in Creative Writing from American University. Since then he has written many short stories. Several were published in Andromeda Spaceways, Night Picnic Press, and Grim & Gilded. You can find them online.
Starzy and Tommy is his first children’s book. He hopes that it will bring warmth, imagination, and heart to young readers.
Praise
Meet the Characters
Starzy
A pony who lives at Farview Farms. She may look little and sweet, but she has a heart full of kindness and courage.
Tommy
A boy who has been held captive within the Wizard’s tower for a very long time. All he really wants is to have friends.
Sal
A grumpy older horse who lives with Starzy at Farview Farms. He’s a real grumpy pants.
Snickers
Another one of Starzy’s friends at Farview Farms. He’s a goofy pony with a big heart.
Jillian
A wise jackalope who is good friends with Starzy. She knows a lot about baking and even a thing or two about magic.
The Wizard
A mean old wizard who has taken Tommy prisoner in his mysterious tower. He doesn’t like many things and owns a lot of big scary birds.