(CRANFORD, NJ) -- Award-winning, New Jersey-based artist John Quinn has published his first children’s novel that brings equestrian history to life by weaving fascinating real-life events into a fantastical story about ponies illustrated by gorgeous watercolor paintings. The Sea Pony, which is intended for children ages 7-12, tells the exciting tale of a mystical species of horses experiencing adventures inspired by the unique ways ponies have been used by societies throughout the centuries.

After conducting meticulous research, Quinn infused his book with realistic portrayals of the Atlantic City horse divers, the coal-mining horses of Wales and many other little-known historical moments. By doing so, he hopes readers will use the story as a springboard to learn more about the animals they love.

“My goal in writing The Sea Pony was to inspire curiosity in readers,” Quinn said. “I’d love it if children, maybe along with their parents or older siblings reading with them, would do their own research into the facts behind the story. There’s a world of information out there for them to explore. This could inspire a lifetime of learning.”

Art lovers will also appreciate The Sea Pony for its beautiful illustrations. Quinn, whose work has been displayed in galleries throughout the New York City area, painted 22 original watercolors to accompany his story. These works are each exquisite in their depictions of the book’s plot, but they actually mark a departure from the veteran artist’s usual style.

“An illustrator I admired all through art school was Jerry Pinkney, but I haven’t painted like him in a long time, so I was excited to go back to that world,” Quinn said. “I hope these illustrations capture readers’ imaginations and maybe even inspire them to pick up a paint brush and try something new like I did.”

The book is available for purchase online.

John Quinn is an award-winning artist whose paintings have been seen in galleries throughout the NYC-area and whose work has supported national advertising campaigns for everything from Bill Blass Eyewear to Tamiflu. His debut children’s novel, The Sea Pony, uses his gorgeous illustrations to help tell the story of young horses experiencing adventures inspired by actual historical events.