The Water Horse

By: Dick King-Smith

Narrated by: Nathaniel Parker

When eight-year-old Kirstie brings home a strange egg from the Scottish shore, her family never expects it to hatch. But the next day, Kirstie discovers a baby sea monster swimming in her bathtub!

Part horse, part toad, part turtle, and part crocodile, he's the oddest-looking creature Kirstie's family has ever seen. Only Kirstie's grandfather knows what the beastie really is: a Water Horse!

This lovable creature is the perfect pet. The only trouble is, he can't stop growing. He gets bigger. And Bigger. And BIGGER. Before long, he's outgrown every loch in sight. Will they ever find a home that's large enough for their Water Horse?

©1990 Foxbusters Ltd (P)2014 Bolinda Publishing

Critic reviews

'It's an ideal family read-aloud.' (The Horn Book Magazine)

'This well-written, fast-paced fantasy combines a popular subject with appealing, distinctive characters, humour, and drama. King-Smith's imaginative spin on an old myth makes the outrageous possible.' (Booklist)

'King-Smith's obvious belief in the power of care and compassion informs this genial tale told from both the human and sea monster's perspectives; it's not one of his strongest stories, but will capture the fancies of his many fans.' (Kirkus Reviews)

Wonderful short story

What a great story! Well written, touching, enchanting and it left me wanting to find out what happened next to Cruso.

This original book is best.

the movie version was quite different and stunk in comparison. very glad I read book first, movie was lousy and quite a bit altered.

My 5 year old daughter and I loved it

This book was excellent, we listened to 2-3 chapters a night at bed time.

We only wish it was longer!

The Scottish narration was an added treat.

Great story

Great story to listen to my 7 year old with. easy to fallow and fun listen.

Nessie!

I really enjoyed this story! It's lighthearted, the characters are real (and funny), and the water horse explains a lot about the monster of the loch. Very fun!