4.1
"National Velvet" by Enid Bagnold is a classic children's novel that has captured the hearts of readers for generations. Published in 1935, the story revolves around a young girl named Velvet Brown and her love for horses. Velvet, a strong-willed and spirited protagonist, dreams of owning and racing her very own horse. The novel takes an exciting turn when Velvet wins a piebald horse named The Pie in a raffle. With the help of her family and a mysterious drifter named Mi, Velvet trains The Pie for the Grand National, one of the most prestigious steeplechase races in the world. Bagnold's vivid descriptions of the English countryside and the thrilling horse races bring the story to life, making it an exciting and engaging read for both children and adults. The novel also explores themes of determination, perseverance, and the importance of following one's dreams. Velvet's character is inspiring, as she defies gender stereotypes and proves that she can compete with the boys in a male-dominated sport. The novel also highlights the importance of family and community, as Velvet's family and friends rally around her to support her dream. "National Velvet" has been adapted into a successful film starring Elizabeth Taylor, and it remains a beloved classic in children's literature. The novel's timeless themes and engaging story make it a must-read for anyone who loves horses or a good coming-of-age story. Overall, "National Velvet" is a heartwarming and inspiring novel that showcases the power of determination, family, and community. It is a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers of all ages...
Marguerite Henry
Misty of Chincoteague
A classic children's book about the friendship between a girl and a wild horse, set on the island of Chincoteague. This book will appeal to readers who enjoyed 'National Velvet' for its themes of horse racing and the special bond between humans and animals.
Learn MoreMary O'Hara
My Friend Flicka
A young boy's love for a wild mustang mare forms the heart of this classic novel. Readers who enjoyed 'National Velvet' will appreciate the themes of perseverance, determination, and the powerful bond between humans and animals.
Learn MoreWill James
Smoky the Cowhorse
This Newbery Medal-winning book tells the story of a wild horse who is captured and tamed, only to escape and return to his wild ways. Fans of 'National Velvet' will enjoy the vivid descriptions of the horse's natural instincts and the challenges of training and taming him.
Learn MoreMarguerite Henry
King of the Wind
This novel tells the story of a horse who becomes a legend in the world of horse racing. Readers who enjoyed 'National Velvet' will appreciate the thrilling racing scenes and the deep connection between the human and animal characters.
Learn MoreC.S. Lewis
The Horse and His Boy
This classic children's book is the third in the Chronicles of Narnia series and tells the story of a young boy who escapes from slavery and journeys across the desert on a talking horse. Fans of 'National Velvet' will enjoy the thrilling adventure and the deep bond between the human and animal characters.
Learn MoreJohn Steinbeck
The Red Pony
This collection of four short stories explores the themes of life, death, and the human experience through the eyes of a young boy and his relationship with a red pony. Readers who enjoyed 'National Velvet' will appreciate the deep connection between the human and animal characters.
Learn MoreAnna Sewell
Black Beauty
This classic novel tells the story of a horse's life from his own perspective, exploring the themes of kindness, cruelty, and the human condition. Fans of 'National Velvet' will enjoy the vivid descriptions of horse racing and the deep connection between the human and animal characters.
Learn MoreMichael Morpurgo
War Horse
This novel tells the story of a horse who is sold into the British cavalry during World War I and his journey to find his way back home. Fans of 'National Velvet' will appreciate the thrilling adventure and the deep bond between the human and animal characters.
Learn MoreGary Paulsen
Hatchet
This novel tells the story of a young boy who survives a plane crash and must learn to live in the wilderness. While not a horse book, it explores themes of perseverance, determination, and the human spirit that will appeal to readers who enjoyed 'National Velvet'.
Learn MoreSheila Burnford
The Incredible Journey
This novel tells the story of three pets who journey across the Canadian wilderness to find their home. Fans of 'National Velvet' will appreciate the thrilling adventure and the deep bond between the human and animal characters.
Learn MoreNicholas Evans
The Horse Whisperer
This novel tells the story of a horse trainer who helps a young girl and her horse heal from a traumatic accident. Fans of 'National Velvet' will appreciate the deep connection between the human and animal characters and the thrilling horse training scenes.
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