Not just a children’s book, War Horse is a delightful, if rather harrowing, read, telling the story of friendship overcoming the horrors of war. Joey’s will and determination, perhaps best signified in his unifying trip into no man’s land, is inspiring and forms the crux of the book. War Horse (Scholastic Gold) Paperback Septemby Michael Morpurgo (Author) 4.6 6,884 ratings See all formats and editions Kindle 3.99 Read with Our Free App Audiobook 0.00 Free with your Audible trial Hardcover 35.89 52 Used from 1.17 8 New from 33.81 3 Collectible from 25. There are some truly worrying moments toward the end of the book whilst the vivid moments of battle bring the reality of war back to the reader. The brave and hopeful language used throughout the book is inspiring, as is Joey’s commitment to his friends. It is Joey’s relationship with original owner Albert that is most touching, the two only being separated by the onslaught of war. Equestrian friend Topthorn offers hope when despair surrounds them whilst friendly officers and youthful German Emillie only have Joey’s best interests at heart.

It is Joey’s friendships that help make the book work as well as it does. He relates with those who are nice and fears those who threaten him. Here he meets friends and enemies, but the distinction between the two is not based on German vs English. Joey, a tall red thoroughbred who takes the breath away from anyone who looks at him, is taken from his stable in Devon and thrown into a war zone. Told through the eyes of the book’s protagonist, Joey the horse, the story manages to provide a neutral statement on the attrocities of war. Primarily a children’s author, Morpurgo enthuses very adult issues into the small book, bringing the reality of the first world war to a larger audience. Corporal Samuel Perkins was a hard, gritty little man, an ex-jockey whose only pleasure in life seemed to be the power he could exert over a horse. Michael Morpurgo’s War Horse is a simple yet effective book.

Michael morpurgo books war horse