Black Beauty

By: Anna Sewell

Narrated by: Bob Thomley

Anna Sewell did not write Black Beauty as a novel for children. She said that her purpose in writing the novel was "to induce kindness, sympathy, and an understanding treatment of horses".

The book broke records for sales and is the sixth best seller in the English language.

Public Domain (P)2011 Trout Lake Media

What a wonderful story to get caught up in.

What did you love best about Black Beauty?

Listening to Black Beauty from the horses point of view was an incredible experiance. I love the way the horses, like people were required to have manners, to have respect for others and they had the understanding that in the long run, hard work pays off. This is the perfect book for children to listen to as well.

Talking animals aren't my style

and I wouldn't have purchased if I realized the narrator of the book is a horse. However, it gradually grew on me and I did enjoy it. Written in 1877, it is yet another classic I had managed to miss. The book follows Black Beauty though life and she describes her owners and the care given to her. You meet other horses and hear about their "occupations" and owners. It was written with the intention of promoting humane treatment of horses, so you do hear about horses being neglected and abused. The plot is gentle, sweet and predictable. I'm glad I read and I did learn quite a bit about horses and their care. Should have read when I was in 5-6th grade.

Beautiful and touching

Would you listen to Black Beauty again? Why?

Yes in a few year perhaps. It's good to see things from the perspective of animals as we hardly stop to think about them most of the times.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Black Beauty himself because of his spirit and his courage of character - he never did give up even in the company of fools and idiots.

What about Bob Thomley’s performance did you like?

Soothing voice - and gentle as Black Beauty himself.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, I could have, but I like to take my time with good books - so they stay with me longer.

It was not great

I thought this book was pretty boring, and slow paced. It is definitely beautiful done, and the writing is very clear yet unique. Overall I did not enjoy this book because I thought it was a dull concept, but definitely would recommend for a person studying English and writing.