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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Black Beauty summary
Brief summary
Black Beauty by Anna Sewell is a poignant story told from the perspective of a horse, highlighting the mistreatment of animals and advocating for kindness and compassion towards them.
Table of Contents
Black Beauty
Summary of key ideas
Birth and Early Days
In Black Beauty, Anna Sewell offers an engaging tale from the perspective of a handsome horse, Black Beauty. Born in a meadow during the idyllic period of spring, the young horse spends his formative years frolicking under the watchful eye of his mother, Duchess. He learns important lessons from his mother, including the importance of kindness and respect towards humans and all animals.
Life changes significantly for Black Beauty when he's sold to Squire Gordon of Birtwick Park. Here, he encounters other horses such as Ginger and Merrylegs and learns about their varied experiences with humans. Life at Birtwick Park is pleasant, and Black Beauty enjoys kind treatment from the Squire and his stable hands, John Manly and James Howard.
Shifting Fortunes
However, things take a turn for the worse when Black Beauty is sold again due to the Squire's ill health. Now, Black Beauty enters the harsher world of cab horses in London under the ownership of a man named Jerry. Despite Jerry's kindness, the grueling work as a cab horse takes a toll on Black Beauty's health.
A severe bout of illness results in Beauty being sold again, this time ending up in the hands of a corn dealer and then a cab driver. He endured harsh conditions and poor treatment from these owners, which further deteriorated his health. These difficult and oppressive periods in his life offer a stark contrast to his earlier life in the meadow and Birtwick Park.
Ginger's Heartbreaking Fate
During these challenging times, Beauty meets his old friend Ginger who shares a grim account of her own life, tainted by cruelty and hardship at the hands of humans. Despite her feisty spirit, Ginger is broken, both physically and mentally, by her experience and unfortunately, eventually dies, offering a stark reminder of the pitiless aspects of human behavior.
Black Beauty, too, suffers from the cruelty of humans, and the terrible effects of a bearing rein, often forced on horses to maintain their head posture in an unnatural upright position. Bringing light to these inhumane practices, Sewell beautifully weaves in animal welfare issues in her narrative.
Years of Bliss
As the tale draws towards its close, luck finally favors Black Beauty who is taken in by the kindly Joe Green. Under Green's loving care, Beauty recovers his health and strength. Now, a carriage horse for the local doctor, Black Beauty leads a comfortable life, well-cared for and respected once again.
In conclusion, Black Beauty provides a poignant and comprehensive life story of a horse, with a strong moral message about the significance of treating all creatures with kindness and respect. The narrative presents the stark contrast between Beauty's joyful early years with his brutal experiences in London, ending in a peaceful resolution under the care of Joe Green.
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What is Black Beauty about?
Black Beauty is a classic novel that tells the story of a beautiful black horse and his life experiences. Through the eyes of the horse, the book explores themes of animal welfare, kindness, and the treatment of animals by humans. It is a poignant and thought-provoking tale that has touched the hearts of readers for generations.
Black Beauty Review
Black Beauty (1877) is a classic novel that tells the compelling story of a horse named Black Beauty and his experiences in Victorian England. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With its powerful portrayal of animal cruelty and the importance of kindness, it raises awareness and empathy towards animals.
- The book explores themes of social injustice and compassion, encouraging readers to reflect on the treatment of both animals and humans.
- Through Black Beauty's narrative voice and personal journey, the book offers a unique perspective on the human-animal bond, making it heartfelt and thought-provoking.
Who should read Black Beauty?
- Animal lovers who want to gain insight into the experiences and feelings of horses
- Readers interested in exploring themes of animal welfare and ethical treatment
- Those who enjoy classic literature and want to experience a heartwarming and emotional story
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Black Beauty FAQs
What is the main message of Black Beauty?
The main message of Black Beauty is the importance of empathy and kindness towards animals.
How long does it take to read Black Beauty?
The reading time for Black Beauty varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is Black Beauty a good book? Is it worth reading?
Black Beauty is a classic that is definitely worth reading. It provides valuable insights into the treatment of animals and the importance of compassion.
Who is the author of Black Beauty?
The author of Black Beauty is Anna Sewell.
What to read after Black Beauty?
If you're wondering what to read next after Black Beauty, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Where Good Ideas Come From by Steven Johnson
- The Art Of Non-Conformity by Chris Guillebeau
- A Whole New Mind by Daniel H. Pink
- Theory U by C. Otto Scharmer
- The Design of Everyday Things by Donald A. Norman
- The Innovator ’s Dilemma# by Clayton M. Christensen
- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
- Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
- Think Like a Freak by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
- The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda