124 Results with the "Children's Literature" genre


    • Chapter 2 The Hunt Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 2 The Hunt begins with the calm of early spring disrupted by the sharp cries of hounds drifting through the morning mist. The colts grazing in the field, myself among them, lifted our heads as instinct and curiosity drew us to the edge of the meadow. Our elders, including my mother and the old gelding in the next field, approached quietly, signaling the significance of the moment. From the hill, we watched as a flurry of motion and color broke through the trees—men in bright coats urging their…
    • Chapter 3 My Breaking In Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 3 My Breaking In marks a pivotal point in Black Beauty’s young life, describing the transition from carefree colthood to trained domestic service. This process, known as “breaking in,” is not about force but gradual adaptation, and in Black Beauty’s case, it was handled with patience and kindness by his master. The first steps involve wearing a bit and bridle—strange and initially uncomfortable objects that restricted his natural movements. Despite the awkwardness, he endured the…
    • Chapter 8: Ginger’s Story Continued Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 8: Ginger's Story Continued reveals the deeper pain and hardship behind Ginger's strong-willed demeanor. Her account begins with being sold to match another chestnut horse, a decision driven by aesthetics rather than compatibility or care. Her new owner, obsessed with appearances, subjected her to a cruel check-rein, forcing her head unnaturally high. The pressure caused her constant strain, making even simple movements painful. Compounded by the use of a sharp bit, her mouth and jaw were sore,…
    • Chapter 9: Merry legs Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 9: Merry legs opens with a lively account of how the cheerful, dependable pony Merrylegs serves as the first riding companion for the children of Mr. Blomefield’s household. His role goes far beyond entertainment—he becomes a patient teacher and a gentle guardian, especially when carrying the young girls like Miss Jessie and Flora. While he happily accommodates their careful rides, the dynamic shifts when the boys become too rowdy or overstay their time, leaving him tired and needing a break.…
    • Chapter 10: A Talk in the Orchard Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 10: A Talk in the Orchard begins with Black Beauty and Ginger reflecting on the pleasure they feel when carrying considerate riders. They discuss how a rider’s light touch on the reins makes a world of difference, bringing not only comfort but also clarity in communication between horse and human. Black Beauty notes that his mouth is very sensitive, and a gentle hand allows him to perform at his best without fear or pain. Ginger agrees, contrasting this kindness with past experiences where rough…
    • Chapter 11: Plain Speaking Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 11: Plain Speaking begins by reflecting on the steady sense of contentment Black Beauty experiences at Birtwick Park. The kindness shown by the master and mistress isn’t limited to people—it extends genuinely to animals, shaping a household where compassion is a guiding principle. Their influence slowly spreads through the community, especially in curbing the use of harsh devices like the check-rein. The mistress, gentle yet determined, often speaks to local drivers and tradesmen, persuading…
    • Chapter 12: A Stormy Day Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 12: A Stormy Day begins with a brisk autumn morning as Black Beauty is harnessed for a journey with his master and John, the coachman. Though recent rains have made the ground soft and the river dangerously high, the atmosphere at the start is pleasant and fresh. The dog-cart, being light, moves easily along the early part of the route. They pass through villages and fields, the roads already muddy from the season's downpour. The group is in good spirits, unaware of how quickly the day will turn.…
    • Chapter 13: The Devil’s Trade Mark Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 13: The Devil's Trade Mark begins during an errand as John and Black Beauty encounter a troubling incident that reveals much about character and cruelty. As they pass a quiet field, a scene of distress catches their attention—a boy attempting to force a small pony over a gate. The boy, later recognized as young Mr. Bushby, strikes and kicks the frightened creature without mercy. Despite the pony’s clear fear and refusal, the boy continues his assault, driven by frustration rather than any need.…
    • Chapter 14: James Howard Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 14: James Howard begins on a quiet December morning as Black Beauty returns from his exercise. Inside the stable, their master arrives holding a letter, his expression thoughtful as he inquires about James Howard’s performance. John, always fair and observant, does not hesitate in his reply. He praises James for being reliable and diligent, a young man who treats the horses with care and approaches his work with seriousness. His tone is firm, almost protective, as he assures the master that James…
    • Chapter 15: The Old Hostler Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 15: The Old Hostler begins with a long journey as Black Beauty, along with his master, mistress, and driver James, travels forty-six miles to visit distant friends. On the first day, they cover over thirty miles, navigating demanding hills and rough terrain. James manages the route with great care, always considering the horses’ stamina. He adjusts the pace, allows rest on the inclines, and makes sure no unnecessary strain is placed on Black Beauty or his fellow horse, Ginger. Their journey is…
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