The Black Stallion
Recommended. Age: 9+. A Catholic review of this book for parents.
Our review
Alec is on a ship that sinks in a storm. He and a wild black horse swim to an empty island and learn to trust each other. Back home, Alec trains the horse for a big race. It is an exciting, clean adventure, good for kids about nine and up. Catholic educators have handed this one to children for decades and it earns its place. Alec is brave, patient and loyal, and he honors the old trainer who helps him. Nothing in it needs correcting. Faith is simply absent, so the thanksgiving is yours to add.
For parents
Read aloud from about seven. Independent reading from nine or ten, which is where reading-level guides and Seton's grade 5 list place it. The shipwreck at the start is tense and may frighten a sensitive child, so read that chapter together. Ask: how does Alec win the Black's trust? He is patient, gentle and steady, and he never forces the horse. Ask what Alec owes Henry, the old trainer who teaches him. Talk about gratitude. Alec lives through the storm and is fed on the island, yet the book never thanks God. Ask your child who they would thank, and say a prayer of thanks together.