The Horse and His Boy
Acceptable with guidance. Age: 10+. A Catholic review of this book for parents.
Our review
Shasta is a poor boy who runs away with Bree, a talking horse, to reach the free land of Narnia. On the way they meet a girl named Aravis and her horse Hwin, and they race to warn the good kings of a surprise attack. In the end Shasta learns the great lion Aslan was guiding him the whole time. A rich adventure about humility and God's hidden care. Age 10, set by Lumen's read-alone age.
For parents
Age 10, set by Lumen's read-alone age (Plugged In lists publisher age 8+). Read aloud from 7. Plugged In notes a beheading in battle, Aravis planning to stab herself before Hwin stops her, prayers to the false god Tash, Aravis lying about doing rites to a goddess, Rabadash letting soldiers take female captives as property, and Edmund fearing Susan's forced marriage. Explain these, then point to Aslan guiding every turn: Providence, not luck.