War Horse (Scholastic Gold) Kindle Edition

This is a powerful short story originally written in 1982 for young readers. It was recently recc'd to me by a close relative, who like myself and maybe 90% of all female children, grew up with a fascination for horses. Black Beauty, Chincoteague and National Velvet and all the various genres and spin offs were and are some of our fondest reading and movie/TV joint recollections. Though published 20 years ago and though I was an Elementary school classroom teacher at the time, I did not come across the story until this very recent conversation, spurred by the upcoming local premiere of the stage touring troupe production with its innovative life-size puppetry. We then researched it. Apparently, it was developed through live interviews of some of the REAL people from WWI mentioned by name, Albert, himself, a villager and Captain Bludgett of the cavalry. The picture of Joey by the soldier is really in a museum. Still I had not read the book nor seen the Spielberg movie (even tho' THAT alone should have peaked my interest in 2011). Anyway, I immediately booked tickets to the stage production here in Rochester, NY for Nov. 2013. Then I ordered the kindle book version so I would be a somewhat enlightened theater goer. I was totally enamored with the book and found it captivating.The narrative style of the book, told primarily from the perspective and 'voice' of the horse, Joey, was a wonderful vehicle to interest a child as well as an adult reader. As a children's book, some caution is necessary for a responsible educator or parent. Some 'scenes', even on the farms, are graphic and war is not a comfortable topic in any event. This book offers a unique opportunity to bring the gruesome reality and history of war and specifically, WW1 to the child audience to open understanding and time for conversation. The message is softened by the bond of loyalty, endurance and total unconditional love between the boy and horse that many kids can identify with, say that between them and their house pets. It also depicts the sadness of loss and death, something many kids are forced to learn to handle. Friendship, kindness and sacrifice are part of the fabric of all our lives.The use of the animal as narrator was a major plus for me, to tell a heart-wrenching/ warming story with a strong anti-war message, in a style suited and familiar to children (think Charlotte's Web). Most of us, at any age, have never had a great understanding of WHY We Go To War at all and this is portrayed in the book, "Ours is not to reason why, ours is but to do or die". To Joey, the farm and what 'his boy', Albert asked of him is answered by Joey's struggles to do what IS asked of him. This ethic carries on to his time in service to England's cavalry, Joey's 'communications' in a teacher/student role concerning how to cope with humans, war and relationships with the other war horses is symbolic of all our life's lessons. The war scenes are graphic, the fighting is frightening and chaotic -- a fluent statement about the insanity of the violence. Horse lovers may find it gruesome abuse, but it was reality.Obviously I cannot say enough good things about this book. As an English major, however, though padding an essay is often worth more grade points, eloquence is often about brevity, being terse and to the point. Think haiku and famous quotes. If this review were so... I would say in ONLY a brief and to the point comment, that; "this book IS brief and to the point".

I had to read the book before seeing the movie. I couldn't watch War Horse without knowing what was going to happen. Michael Morpurgo definitely put together an incredibly touching story when he decided to put pen to paper (so to speak) for this one.*In 1914, Joey, a beautiful bay-red foal with a distinctive cross on his nose, is sold to the army and thrust into the midst of the war on the Western Front. With his officer, he charges toward the enemy, witnessing the horror of the battles in France. But even in the desolation of the trenches, Joey's courage touches the soldiers around him and he is able to find warmth and hope. But his heart aches for Albert, the farmer's son he left behind. Will he ever see his true master again?*This story is told from Joey's point of view. It's unbiased and incredibly observant and completely heartwrenching. Joey's sold right out from under Albert's nose by an alcoholic father who is desperate for money. The man who buys him promises Albert he'll take wonderful care of him. And he does, but it doesn't last forever. Joey's story is full of miracle after tragedy after miracle and it's so sad to read. But warms your heart at the same time. Just when you think things couldn't get any worse, they get better. Only to get worse again... only to get better. It's an incredible roller-coaster of a story.War Horse is a fast read. And I wasn't sure I'd be able to make it through without sobbing because I HATE seeing animals hurt or neglected... I can't stand it when they die in movies (seriously, I was a blubbering mess in King Kong and I Am Legend when the dog dies saving Will Smith).It was really interesting to read it from Joey's point of view... kind of gives you a look into the mind and soul of these big, beautiful creatures that we can't get otherwise. He's got an incredibly huge heart and a gentle spirit and there were several places in his story that had me tearing up. I kept having to put my Kindle down because I just didn't think I could read any more. The poor thing just couldn't catch a break! But every time I read something that broke my heart, it was followed by something that put it right back together.I think this would have to be one of my favorite novels. It's absolutely wonderful. I STILL don't know how watching the movie will go (I'll be sure to have lots of tissues) but if it's anything like the book it has to be wonderful.Definitely recommended for everyone.

War Horse is a very touching read that takes you into the depths of World War I in the final days of the Cavalry. Morpurgo has done a very good job writing a story from a very different point of view than normal yet making it a very enthralling story, more so than usual because you are shown the perspectives of many of the different characters. Although this is a young adult book it is suitable for all ages, especially those who have a love for horses.The story is narrated by Joey, a Thoroughbred-cross horse and takes you from his days as a colt with his beloved master Albert throughout his days serving in the calvary, assisting the hospitals, and more throughout the war. The author has taken care to be very descriptive and to develop a very touching work. At one point I had to put this book down because I was laughing and crying at the same time.This is a nice and easy read that can definitely be finished within a weekend, and it certainly makes you appreciate our equine friends all the more. Many of us often fail to take into consideration the needs and feelings of our animals, and this is a book that makes you think twice when spending time with your animals. This book ultimately portrays the dedication and love of man and horse, and is just a truly great read.