Black Beauty by Anna Sewell (Vintage 1968 Illustrated Hardcover)

Description

“Black Beauty” is a classic novel written by English author Anna Sewell. It was first published in 1877, shortly before Sewell’s death, and has since become one of the most beloved and influential works of children’s literature.

The novel is written in the form of an autobiography and is narrated from the perspective of a horse named Black Beauty. It is a poignant and touching story that advocates for the humane treatment of horses and highlights the mistreatment and hardships that many working horses endured during the 19th century.

The story begins with Black Beauty’s early years as a colt on a farm, where he enjoys a happy and carefree life with his mother, Duchess. He learns valuable lessons about kindness and respect from the other horses on the farm, especially from his gentle and wise friend, Ginger.

As Black Beauty grows older, he is sold to various owners and undergoes a series of experiences, both positive and negative. Throughout his life, he encounters different people, some of whom treat him with love and compassion, while others are cruel and indifferent. He becomes a carriage horse, and his journeys take him through different social classes and various settings, giving readers a glimpse into the lives of people in 19th-century England.

Anna Sewell’s purpose in writing “Black Beauty” was to raise awareness of the mistreatment of horses and promote better treatment and understanding of these loyal animals. She wrote the novel as a way to advocate for more humane treatment in an era when horses were often overworked, abused, and subjected to harsh conditions.

“Black Beauty” is not only a touching tale of a horse’s life but also a powerful advocacy piece for animal welfare. It brought attention to the concept of empathy towards animals and influenced the development of animal welfare legislation in various countries.

Over the years, “Black Beauty” has remained a cherished classic and has been adapted into numerous stage plays, films, and television series. Its enduring popularity has helped to keep alive the message of compassion and kindness towards animals, making it a timeless and influential work of literature.