
The story opens with the voice of a young horse recalling the peaceful meadow where he was born. He describes the clear pond, shady trees, and the tender care of his mother, Duchess, who teaches him kindness and good manners. Their master is a gentle farmer who offers food, affection, and a sense of safety, creating a world where the animals feel truly valued.
Through the horse’s eyes we glimpse a simple rural life filled with playful gallops, the occasional mischief of a mischievous boy, and the firm but fair discipline of the farmhand. The narrative blends vivid descriptions of the countryside with quiet lessons about respect, loyalty, and the responsibility that comes with strength. Listeners are drawn into a world where every hoofbeat carries meaning.
When the seasons change, the horse’s world expands beyond the meadow, hinting at new duties and encounters that will test the values he has learned. This early chapter sets a warm, reflective tone, inviting listeners to share in the horse’s hopes, fears, and the gentle wisdom that guides his journey.
Language
en
Duration
~5 hours (301K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by A. Light, Linda Bowser, and David Widger
Release date
2006-01-16
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1820–1878
Best known for the beloved classic Black Beauty, this English writer turned deep sympathy for animals into one of the most enduring stories in children’s literature. Her work was shaped by illness, a quiet Quaker upbringing, and a lifelong concern for the humane treatment of horses.
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