In my mind I have a memory of my seventh birthday. I’m not entirely convinced if it’s accurate or whether it’s morphed to its current shape with the passage of time. Basically I’m with my nan and mum shopping and in those much simpler times spot the book ‘Black Beauty’ by Anna Sewell and ask to have it as a present. In all fairness back then it might have amounted to the present!

Although not adverse to reading even at that age, I think my interest in this particular tome had been sparked largely by a television series called ‘The Adventures Of Black Beauty’ which was shown on ITV between 17th September 1972 and 10th March 1974. The theme tune was called ‘Galloping Home’ and is considered iconic.

To my shame though the book was never read. I possibly tried the first few pages and believe there were some beautiful illustrations in it also. What happened to it I have no recollection, it wasn’t on my book shelf during teenage years I’m sure. So, recently I decide to right this wrong and download it to my Kindle, how times change!

Black Beauty was written in 1877 and coupled with the television adaptations and various film versions (seven dating from 1921 to the most recent in 2020), there can be few people who aren’t familiar with the basics of the plot.

In summary it follows a horses (Black Beauty) journey from a well cared for colt, through various adventures both good and bad, to a peaceful retirement with a loving owner. Although generally perceived as a children’s book, there is plenty of content for all generations. This I think is particularly so with its treatment of animal welfare, with which it is credited with being ground breaking in raising the awareness of animal rights and cruelty at that time.

Personally the treatment of animal rights provides the best and worst of the book. On the one hand raising such issues is always a positive thing. They are numerous ranging from cruel equine equipment, ethical concerns in sport and entertainment and abusive handling and labour right through to societal factors such as alcohol abuse and the manner in which horses are used as a fashion accessory.

However, the way Sewell delivers the associated messages can transmit itself as quite pious. She was originally from a Quaker family and sometimes the narrative can stray into the religious with no attempt to explain (obviously it could never be justified) what lies behind these inappropriate behaviours.

Even so it’s a book I would definitely recommend and I’m glad I took the time to finally read it. Beyond the important messages noted above there is also an interesting storyline as the reader follows Black Beauty’s life with the author tying all the threads seamlessly together at the end. A solid (and very belated!) nine out of ten from this reader.