This book was not in my reading plans at all. But I bought it immediately after learning about the new Steven Spielberg movie which was based off it. And of course, it’s a war novel so I’m not letting this one pass. It’s short like the two previous war novels I reviewed so it’s not likely that I’ll be tackling any of the long-form books at Fullybooked’s Warfare section soon.
War Horse (My paperback movie tie-in edition copy)
War Horse is the story of a horse who lived between British and German conflict during World War I. Can’t get a description any more straightforward than that. It’s a very short book at 165 pages only so I shouldn’t really be giving a lot about the plot. One thing I want to mention though: it’s really a horse’s story. I mean, literally. The horse is the narrator. This revelation stupefied me much like the same way Stargirl’s storyteller did to me a few days ago.
So we see things from the POV (point of view) of a horse. Great. I’m pretty sure it’s been done before. Animals doing the talking. But I’m willing to bet that this book is one of the few to utilize this storytelling style to great effect. Joey, the horse (not a kangaroo) if real, is one fine and intelligent horse. Through Joey, we are made to see the (usually silly) aspects of war that normally go past our self-interested human minds.
Albert and Joey (from the War Horse movie)
Apart from being a war and horse story, War Horse is also a story of that curious friendship man has with that most regal of all animals. I have never touched a real life horse but Joey made me dream of having my own horse too whom I could talk to and ride to work. Okay, the last part may violate some road rules so just a talking buddy would do.
Albert, Joey’s owner, showed that domestic animals are capable of unwavering faith and loyalty too if only they are treated with dignity and respect. Joey and Albert’s relationship certainly made me consider talking a bit more to our family dog Wolfie. Like really talk as if there’s a two-way communication between us. Should be exciting though I’m not sure if neighbors would approve of such behavior.
Alternate book cover that emphasizes the war in the story
This was the edition I really wanted to have but couldn't find anywhere. Now I actually like the movie edition best.
I recommend War Horse to anyone who has even just a faint interest in horses and humans and the effects of war to both. This is a good book for young people to see how war impacts not just people. When we hear about conflicts and suffering in the Middle East, do news organizations even care to mention how these man-made problems affect nature and the animals? Hm? I didn’t think so.
I’m excited to see the movie but I’m about 90% sure we won’t be seeing things from Joey’s POV on this other medium. Still, the story itself would make for a fairly inspiring movie experience. It’s been nominated of several awards already. But I think the book will still end up being superior because of the inimitable storytelling style. So whether you see the movie or not, make sure you read the book as well.
Just like to add that a theater show has also been created and was first shown in London year 2007. It then move to West End in 2009 to critical acclaim. Theater show was awesome. Puppets where/are being used to represent the horses. From a far they seems so real. Definitely better than the movie. Check out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-bni4QqSv4.
Thanks for that Jared. Sorry for the terribly late reply. I still haven’t seen War Horse. Missed it in theaters. I think it only had a week of run here and it was pulled off due to other big name movies.