Book Review -- War Horse

War Horse by Michael Morpurgo

My enjoyment rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source:  Personal copy

Genre:  Juvenile Fiction

Sensitive reader:  Descriptions of battlefields and war, but nothing particularly graphic.

Joey works on a farm. But on the eve of WWI, Joey’s responsibilities change…he must train for the battlefields and trenches in France. We learn from Joey about of the horrors of war, the power of friendship, the basic necessities of food, shelter and rest. Joey is an integral part to those around him, and they depend on his strength and endurance. And even in the darkest depths of despair, Joey provides a light to those with whom he comes in contact. Joey is often mistreated, but he doesn’t hold a grudge. He has been trained for a job – and he perseveres.

Oh, did I mention, Joey is a horse.

Author Michael Morpurgo has written a tender story about the love of a horse and his keeper, Albert, who loses Joey to the British Army, but pledges his life to find him again.

It was a concise, but powerful story that follows Joey’s journey through his “tour” of duty. It shows the heart and power of an animal during arduous circumstances.

I loved reading this from Joey’s point of view. It made the story that much more special.

Highly recommended.

*(I have not seen the movie -- will be interested to see how Spielberg transforms Joey's story for the cinema).

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