The Black Stallion and the Lost City
#5 of 20 in Young black stallion Series
on Goodreads (187)
What’s inside...
When Alec and the Black are hired to work as stunt doubles in a film about Alexander and his horse, Bucephalus, they find themselves on set in the remote mountains of the Greek/Bulgarian border. Movie making involves a lot of waiting, so they set out for a morning of exploring. Chasing an elusive albino mare, the two find themselves caught in an underground river which drops them, half-drowned, beside a city lost in time. Revered at first, they soon discover that they are intended as the entertainment at a horrific ritual . . . sacrifices to the legendary flesh-eating mares in the coloseum of King Diomedes. Another thrilling new Black Stallion novel by Walter Farley's son, which proves that the art of writing a great horse story is definitely in the genes! From the Hardcover edition.
Character compass
Alec Ramsay
The Black Stallion
Discussion points
What do you think Alec learned from his adventure in the lost city?
How do you think the relationship between Alec and The Black impacted their journey?
What qualities do Alec and The Black have that helped them survive their challenges?
If you were in Alec's place, how would you handle the situation differently?
What does the idea of a 'lost city' represent in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story’s setting, and ask how they might feel or react to specific events.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and trust, as depicted between Alec and The Black, and relate it to real-life situations in your child’s experiences.
Highlight moments in the book where characters show resilience or courage and ask your child to share a time when they demonstrated similar qualities.
Use the mystery of the 'lost city' to spark curiosity about history and archeology, tying it into learning about different cultures and eras.
After reading, ask your child to draw their interpretation of a scene from the book, facilitating a discussion about what they imagined while reading.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist in 'The Black Stallion and the Lost City' faces numerous challenges but continues to strive towards their goals.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of not giving up when facing difficulties in school or in personal achievements.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Characters in the story collaborate and support each other, emphasizing the strength found in working together.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to value cooperative play and teamwork in group activities or sports.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and animals
Explanation: The narrative showcases the beauty and importance of the natural world and its creatures, promoting a respectful and caring attitude.
Real-World Application: Instills in children the importance of environmental conservation and treating animals with kindness.
Example Lesson: Courage to explore the unknown
Explanation: The characters venture into unfamiliar territories, showing bravery and a spirit of adventure.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to be curious and explorative, encouraging learning through new experiences and environments.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and decision-making
Explanation: The protagonist makes crucial decisions that impact the outcome of their journey, highlighting accountability.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of making thoughtful choices and understanding the consequences of their actions.