Anna Sewell

Described on the title-page of the first edition as 'the autobiography of her horse, translated from the original equine', BLACK BEAUTY was Anna Sewell's only book, written when she fatally ill but determined to record her passopnate indignation at the insensitive behaviour of people towards animals.

One of the most celebrated and enduringly popular animal stories, Black Beauty was originally written as an appeal for humane treatment of horses. It is a compelling tale that revolves around a handsome and sweet-tempered horse. As from the beginning Black Beauty was recognised as an extraordinary horse who was meek but spirited, swift yet steady and whose gentle nature triumphs over abuse and misfortune. Until the day when he is sold, his life changes immeasurably and he finally sees the truth in his mother's words. As he moves from master to master, Beauty's adventures will captivate readers with magic and excitement that made the original story a beloved favourite. Anna Sewell was an English novelist, who suffered serious ankle injuries at the age of twelve and often had to rely on horse drawn carriages as a means of transport which inspired her to write this phenomenal novel which later became one of the top ten best selling novels for children ever written. She captured millions of hearts with this remarkable best seller.

Anna Sewell’s Black Beauty was an immediate success on its publication in 1877, and has gone on to sell an estimated 50 million copies. Black Beauty is a horse with a fine black coat, a white foot and a silver star on his forehead. Seen through his eyes, the story tells of his idyllic upbringing and the hardship and cruelty he suffers subsequently, before finding security and happiness in a new home. Black Beauty is one of the most popular children’s books ever written.