BLACK BEAUTY (With Original Illustrations): Classic of World Literature

Anna Sewell

Dec 2023 · DigiCat

About this ebook

Anna Sewell's 'Black Beauty' is a classic novel that offers a poignant and compassionate look into the life of a horse as he navigates through various owners and experiences. Written in a straightforward and engaging narrative style, the book sheds light on the mistreatment of animals in the 19th century, making it a notable work of animal rights literature. Through the eyes of the titular character, readers are exposed to the harsh realities of life as a working horse, highlighting the importance of empathy and compassion. With its vivid descriptions and emotional depth, 'Black Beauty' remains a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with readers of all ages. Anna Sewell, a passionate advocate for animal welfare, drew inspiration from her own experiences and observations to craft 'Black Beauty'. Her intimate knowledge of horses and her desire to raise awareness about their treatment influenced the poignant and insightful portrayal of the protagonist's journey. Sewell's dedication to giving animals a voice shines through in this groundbreaking piece of literature. I highly recommend 'Black Beauty' to readers seeking a moving and thought-provoking read that delves into themes of compassion, empathy, and social justice. Sewell's timeless classic serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of treating all living beings with kindness and respect.

About the author

Anna Sewell (1820–1878) was an English novelist, best known for her classic work 'Black Beauty', one of the bestselling books of all time. Written between 1871 and 1877, during the last years of her life, the novel was published in 1877, just five months before Sewell's death. Being invalided from a young age due to an accident, Sewell spent much of her life depending on horse-drawn carriages for mobility, which engendered in her a deep sympathy for the mistreatment of horses. 'Black Beauty', with its original illustrations, became her first and only novel, yet it has had a profound impact on the welfare of horses and the genre of animal-autobiographical works. Written from the perspective of a horse, it shed light on the cruelty animals could face, pushing the animal welfare movement forward. Sewell's narrative style was innovative for its time, giving the animal a voice and perspective that spoke directly to the reader's sense of compassion. Though considered a children's novel, 'Black Beauty' transcends age, being both a compelling story and a treatise on kindness, empathy, and the proper care of animals. Sewell's literary contribution, though singular, remains a timeless and cherished piece of literature that continues to inspire improvements in animal welfare and captivate readers of all generations.