Plot Summary

Black Gold

Marguerite Henry
Guide cover placeholder

Black Gold

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1957

Book Brief

Marguerite Henry

Black Gold

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1957
Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Tulsa, Oklahoma • 1910s

Topic
Publication Year

1957

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

820L

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Super Short Summary

Black Gold by Marguerite Henry is a fictionalized account of the inspiring journey of Black Gold, a small but spirited stallion who rises from humble beginnings to win the 1924 Kentucky Derby. The story follows Black Gold’s journey from foal to racehorse, emphasizing his relationship with trainer Hanley Webb and jockey Jaydee Mooney, highlighting themes of courage, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams.

Emotional

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Adventurous

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.4

6,465 ratings

77%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Marguerite Henry’s Black Gold is lauded for its engaging storytelling and historical accuracy, capturing the spirit of a tenacious racehorse. Readers appreciate the vivid descriptions and emotional depth. Criticisms focus on some pacing issues and predictability. Overall, a compelling read that appeals to horse lovers and history enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Black Gold?

A reader who would enjoy Black Gold by Marguerite Henry is typically a middle-grade student fascinated by horses, history, and heartwarming stories of perseverance. Similar readers may have enjoyed Misty of Chincoteague by Henry or National Velvet by Enid Bagnold for their engaging narratives about young protagonists and their equine companions.

4.4

6,465 ratings

77%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Tulsa, Oklahoma • 1910s

Topic
Publication Year

1957

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

820L

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