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"King of the Wind" by Marguerite Henry is a Newbery Medal-winning historical fiction novel that tells the story of the Godolphin Arabian, one of the three foundation sires of the Thoroughbred horse breed. The novel, published in 1948, follows the journey of the Godolphin Arabian from his birth in the desert of Morocco to his eventual fame as a racehorse in England. The story is narrated by the horse's faithful friend, a mute stable boy named Agba. Through Agba's eyes, readers experience the hardships and adventures that the Godolphin Arabian faces as he is sold and traded across the Mediterranean, eventually ending up in the stables of the King of France. Along the way, the horse's exceptional speed and spirit are revealed, and he becomes known as "the god from the wind," or "Battler out of the Wind," a name that pays tribute to his desert origins. Henry's vivid and engaging prose brings to life the world of 18th-century horse racing and the people and animals who inhabited it. The novel is rich in historical detail, and Henry's extensive research into the history of the Thoroughbred breed is evident throughout the story. At the same time, "King of the Wind" is a timeless tale of friendship, perseverance, and the power of the human-animal bond. "King of the Wind" is a classic of children's literature that continues to captivate readers of all ages. Its themes of adventure, resilience, and the love between a boy and his horse make it a compelling and memorable read. The novel's lyrical prose and rich historical detail also make it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of horse racing and the Thoroughbred breed...
Marguerite Henry
Misty of Chincoteague
For fans of 'King of the Wind', 'Misty of Chincoteague' is another great horse story by the same author. The book tells the story of the famous Misty, a wild Chincoteague pony, and the children who dream of owning her. This heartwarming tale of determination and the love of horses is sure to please any fan of 'King of the Wind'.
Learn MoreWill James
Smoky the Cowhorse
If you enjoyed the themes of training and understanding animals in 'King of the Wind', you might like 'Smoky the Cowhorse' by Will James. This Newbery Medal-winning book tells the story of a wild mustang and the cowboy who trains him, exploring the bond between man and animal in the process.
Learn MoreMary O'Hara
My Friend Flicka
Fans of 'King of the Wind' might enjoy 'My Friend Flicka' by Mary O'Hara. This classic horse story follows the life of a young boy named Ken as he raises and trains a wild filly named Flicka. The book explores the challenges and rewards of training a horse, as well as the deep bond that can form between a boy and his horse.
Learn MoreC.S. Lewis
The Horse and His Boy
If you enjoyed the themes of adventure and journey in 'King of the Wind', you might like 'The Horse and His Boy' by C.S. Lewis. This fantasy horse story is set in the world of Narnia and follows the adventures of a talking horse and his young master as they journey across dangerous terrain to save their homeland.
Learn MoreSheila Burnford
The Incredible Journey
If you enjoyed the themes of adventure and journey in 'King of the Wind', you might like 'The Incredible Journey' by Sheila Burnford. This classic animal story follows the journey of three pets - a dog, a cat, and a Siamese cat - as they travel across the Canadian wilderness to find their home. The book explores the themes of loyalty, determination, and the bond between animals and their owners.
Learn MoreAnna Sewell
Black Beauty
Fans of 'King of the Wind' might enjoy 'Black Beauty' by Anna Sewell. This classic horse story is told from the perspective of a horse named Black Beauty, who experiences both kindness and cruelty at the hands of different owners. The book explores the themes of animal welfare, compassion, and the human-animal bond.
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