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45 pages 1 hour read

The Black Stallion

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1941

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Book Brief

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Walter Farley

The Black Stallion

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1941
Book Details
Pages

187

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

Mid-Atlantic Ocean • 1940s

Topic
Publication Year

1941

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

680L

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Super Short Summary

The Black Stallion by Walter Farley is about a New York schoolboy, Alec Ramsay, who forms a deep bond with a wild black stallion after they survive a shipwreck together. They end up stranded on an uninhabited island, where they rely on each other for survival. After being rescued, Alec brings the stallion home and, with the help of a neighbor, trains him for a high-stakes race. The novel involves danger, physical injury, and loss of human life.

Adventurous

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Exciting

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.5

76,122 ratings

78%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Walter Farley's The Black Stallion captivates readers with its thrilling adventure and deep bond between a boy and his horse. Praised for its engaging prose and vivid imagery, the novel enjoys popularity across age groups. However, some critics find the character development lacking and the plot predictable. Overall, it's a cherished classic for horse enthusiasts and young readers alike.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Black Stallion?

A reader who would enjoy The Black Stallion by Walter Farley is typically a preteen or early teenager with a passion for adventure, animals, and heartwarming tales of friendship. Fans of Charlotte's Web by E.B. White or Misty of Chincoteague by Marguerite Henry will find this book captivating.

4.5

76,122 ratings

78%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Alexander “Alec” Ramsay

A fair-complected, red-headed boy who lives in New York City with his parents, known for his love of horses and adventure. Alec forms a deep bond with a mysterious, untamed black stallion, which becomes central to his life.

A stunning and untamed pure black stallion with a perfect racehorse build, larger than typical for an Arabian, known for his fierce and enigmatic nature. The Black shares a unique bond with Alec and allows him to ride and care for him.

A retired, knowledgeable jockey who becomes a mentor to Alec, providing support and training for racing. His past glories in racing intersect with Alec and the Black's story, as he shares his skills and connections.

A gentle, 15-year-old draft horse who pulls a cart in New York and is stabled with Henry. He forms an unlikely bond with the Black, offering reassurance and calm amidst the chaotic city life.

Book Details
Pages

187

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

Mid-Atlantic Ocean • 1940s

Topic
Publication Year

1941

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

680L

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