#1 in War Horse Series
War Horse
on Goodreads (57,352)
What’s inside...
War Horse is a tale of a remarkable friendship between a horse named Joey and a young man called Albert, who tames and trains him. When they are forcefully parted, the two embark on an extraordinary journey to find each other again amid the devastating backdrop of the First World War.
Discussion points
How do you think Joey, the horse, felt during the different challenges he faced in the story?
What do you think about the relationships between Joey and the various characters he meets? Which relationship was most impactful and why?
How does the setting of the war affect the characters and their actions?
What would you have done differently if you were in Albert’s shoes?
What are some of the major themes of the book and what lessons can we learn from them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Joey’s shoes, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of the character’s experiences.
Discuss the historical context of the book to enhance understanding of the story's backdrop and its impact on the characters.
Use the characters' diverse experiences to discuss the concept of perspective and how different characters can have varying viewpoints.
Highlight the resilience shown by Joey and other characters, discussing how this can be applied in your child's life.
Ask your child to describe their favorite part of the book and explain why it stood out to them, which promotes critical thinking and articulation skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: In 'War Horse', readers witness the deep bond between Joey, the horse, and his various caretakers across different countries amidst the chaos of war. The heartfelt care Joey receives showcases empathy in practice, transcending human and animal relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy by understanding and sharing the feelings of their classmates, pets, or family members, promoting a nurturing and supportive environment.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: Joey’s journey through the harsh realities of World War I, facing numerous challenges yet pushing forward, embodies the spirit of resilience. This is portrayed through his unyielding will to survive and return home.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persistence in overcoming obstacles whether it’s in their academic pursuits, personal projects, or interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: The Impact of War on Lives
Explanation: Through Joey’s eyes, readers see the devastating effects of war on both humans and animals. The book does not shy away from depicting the sorrow and hardships caused by conflict.
Real-World Application: This can lead to discussions at home or in educational settings about the importance of peace, and understanding historical conflicts to prevent future ones.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Joey develops significant relationships with other characters, such as Albert and Captain Nicholls. These relationships provide support and comfort in tough times, emphasizing the power of friendship.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to build and maintain friendships, understanding that true friends provide emotional support and camaraderie through all life’s ups and downs.
Example Lesson: Courage in Adversity
Explanation: Characters in the book, including Joey and Albert, display great courage when faced with dire circumstances. Their bravery in the face of adversity is a central theme that drives the narrative.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to act bravely during difficult situations, whether it’s standing up for a friend or facing their own personal challenges.