Product Overview
Black Beauty: The Autobiographical Memoir Of A Horse
In a book beloved by generations, Black Beauty tells the story of his life, engaging young readers and providing valuable life lessons.
Ordering Books for Black Beauty by Anna Sewell
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About the Book Black Beauty |
Black Beauty is a fictional autobiographical memoir told by a horse named Black Beauty. The story is narrated from his perspective, allowing readers to experience the world through the eyes of an animal. Born on a farm, Black Beauty enjoys a happy and carefree colt-hood, learning valuable lessons from his mother about kindness and patience. Black Beauty's first significant change comes when he is sold to Squire Gordon of Birtwick Hall. There, under the care of the kind Coachman John Manly and stable boy James Howard, Black Beauty experiences humane and loving treatment. He befriends Ginger, Merrylegs, and Sir Oliver, each with their own stories of adversity and hope. The tranquil life at Birtwick Hall is a stark contrast to the challenges that lie ahead. Black Beauty's life takes another turn when the Gordons must relocate due to Mrs. Gordon's failing health. The horses are sold, and Beauty finds himself in a series of homes, each with varying degrees of kindness and cruelty. From the harsh treatment by unkind drivers to overwork and neglect in London, Beauty's spirit remains resilient despite the physical and emotional toll. After a series of unfortunate events, including being overworked as a cab horse and suffering from poor conditions, Black Beauty eventually finds a sanctuary at Farmer Thoroughgood's place. Here, he is recognized and purchased by a kind caretaker who gives him the peaceful and respectful retirement he deserves.
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Themes in the book Black Beauty |
Animal Welfare and Treatment: One of the most prominent themes in Black Beauty is the humane treatment of animals. Through Black Beauty's experiences, Sewell critiques the mistreatment and exploitation of horses in Victorian England. The book powerfully advocates for empathy towards animals, highlighting the moral responsibility humans hold. Empathy and Compassion: Empathy is at the heart of Sewell's narrative. The story encourages readers to step into the shoes—or hooves—of another being, fostering a deeper understanding of suffering and kindness. It underscores the importance of compassionate behavior toward all living creatures. The Effects of Kindness and Cruelty: Sewell explores how both kindness and cruelty can significantly impact an individual's life. Characters like John Manly represent the positive effects of kindness and proper care, while others, such as the cab drivers, illustrate the damaging consequences of cruelty and neglect. Resilience and Hope: Despite numerous hardships, Black Beauty's story is one of resilience. His unwavering spirit and ultimate happy ending serve as a testament to hope and perseverance. This theme can inspire students to overcome their challenges with grace and strength.
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Activity Ideas for the book Black Beauty |
Personification: Introduce the term "personification" to students and discuss whether it applies to Black Beauty or not. Research: Have students research about horses--care, kinds of horses, the diseases mentioned in the book and others, how to ride a horse, etc. Creative Writing: Have students choose an animal--a family pet or pet of a friend, a zoo animal, an animal in a pet shop, an animal in Africa, any animal--and write a little story from that animal's point of view, sort-of A Day in the Life of ... to practice narrative writing and point of view. Letter Writing: Tell students to write a letter to one of the human characters in the book from Black Beauty. Internet Exploration: Explore with students or have students explore independently various organizations related to the care of animals. About the Author: Create an activity around finding out about the author, Anna Sewell. Perhaps have each student bring in one fact about the author that s/he finds particularly interesting, then compile the facts in class.
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