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Black Beauty

Written by: Anna Sewell
Narrated by: Nathaniel Parker
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Publisher's Summary

This classic tale of a handsome, spirited horse, Black Beauty has been a children's favourite for over 100 years. Sewell tells the story of Beauty's life from a young foal through to a working horse.
Public Domain (P)2008 BBC Audiobooks Ltd

What listeners say about Black Beauty

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A classic for a reason

An excellently read version of the classic that brought awareness of the suffering of creatures who were treated by most as mere machines.

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Dear Beauty.

This story is so precious to me. I grew up with it. It never ceases to overwhelm me. Black Beauty is apart of my heart. The narrator captured his gracious character so well.

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my 6 year old loved it!

great audio book. my 6 year old loved it & wants to listen again. I would recommend this to anyone who loves horses

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Not just for children

I remember having this book read to me as a very young child, as well as watching the original movie. As an animal lover, I remembered the messages of kindness and the humane treatment of animals. The author even expresses her support for euthanasia, told in a way that a child could understand.

I wanted to reread the original version, even though it's considered a "children's classic" because I know that these books often contain additional messages for adults. Wow, I wasn't wrong.

Anna Sewell only wrote one book, and although it is told from the perspective of a horse, it's very apparent that she had a multitude of strong beliefs that she needed us to hear. Lessons for adults. Lessons told in 1877 that everyone would do well to heed today. She breaches the subjects of division in religion and politics. She repeatedly expresses her feelings related to what we recognize today as "see something, say something". She opines on war. Most of all, she talks about character and reputation, from vanity to excessive drinking, timeliness, honesty, kindness and respect. She even addresses family and work life balance.

It's a soft sell, and you can simply enjoy the tender story of Black Beauty's life, if you so choose. It takes us back to "simpler" times when travel relied on a good horse and buggy. If you're paying attention though, this book is quite complex. Apparently Sewell did not intend for it to be a children's book.

i'm glad I chose to reread it in 2022, as an adult who shares many of Ms. Sewell's views. I wish I'd known her.

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Wonderful

Wonderful wonderful. First time I’ve ever heard this story at age 28 and I loved it. Narration gave this story so much heart and humanity.

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