A Horse Called Hero

Sam Angus

- 3.4 • 5 Ratings

- $9.99

- $9.99

In A Horse Called Hero by Sam Angus, it is the brink of World War II, and a family forced out of their London home flees to the country. Wolfie and his older sister Dodo are devastated to leave behind everything they've ever known, but they begin settling into their new life.

One day, they come across an orphaned fowl, which they raise as Hero, a strong and beautiful horse who lives up to his name when he saves the children from a fire.

Wolfie and Dodo find comfort in their new life, but the war is escalating quickly and horses are needed for combat. One night, Hero is stolen, and the children are shattered. Years then pass without any indication Hero will return. It's only when Wolfie becomes a stable hand that he discovers Hero has ended up working in the mines under terrible conditions. Then and there, Wolfie resolves to save Hero, a plan that places both of their lives in jeopardy. Together again, can they will survive?

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY MAY 19, 2014

Continuing to work in a vein of historical fiction reminiscent of War Horse, Angus follows Soldier Dog with a story about a British boy and a horse trying to find happiness against all odds. Eight-year-old Wolfie Revel's widowed father was honored with a medal after WWI, but he is being accused of desertion. For safety, Wolfie and his older sister, Dodo, are sent from London to the countryside, along with other children from the city. The siblings manage to stay together, and Wolfie befriends Hero, a grey foal whose friendship keeps Wolfie's spirits afloat as the years pass despite unfamiliar surroundings, fears about his father's trial, and horrific war news. Letters from Wolfie's father provide the boy with measures of both concern and comfort, offering advice concerning horses and life ("Be impatient with the world, Wolfie, but never be impatient with a horse"). Incorporating details about pacifism, horse training, and the dangers facing coal miners (Wolfie ends up working as one), Angus's expansive novel expresses the confusion and far-reaching effects of war and the meaning of heroism. Ages 9 12.

GENRE