In the peaceful paddocks of Squire Gordon’s estate, Black Beauty grows strong and swift under the watchful eyes of his mother and the kind-hearted groom, John Manly. But beyond the safety of his lush pastures lies a world filled with both friendship and peril.

Black Beauty forms unbreakable bonds with the playful Merrylegs and the fiery Ginger, yet shadows of hardship begin to creep into their lives. Beauty’s journey is only just beginning—one that will test his courage, loyalty, and spirit in ways he never imagined.

PART ONE CONTENTS

• Chapter 1: My Early Home

• Chapter 2: The Hunt

• Chapter 3: My Breaking In

• Chapter 4: Birtwick Park

• Chapter 5: A Fair Start

• Chapter 6: Liberty

• Chapter 7: Ginger

• Chapter 8: Ginger’s Story Cont’d

• Chapter 9: Merrylegs

• Chapter 10: A Talk in the Orchard

• Chapter 11: Plain Speaking

• Chapter 12: A Stormy Day

• Chapter 13: The Devil’s Trade Mark

• Chapter 14: James Howard

• Chapter 15: The Old Hostler

• Chapter 16: The Fire

• Chapter 17: John Manly’s Talk

• Chapter 18: Going for the Doctor

• Chapter 19: Only Ignorance

• Chapter 20: Joe Green

• Chapter 21: The Parting

In the quiet countryside, where meadows stretch endlessly and the breeze whispers through the trees, a young colt named Black Beauty takes his first steps into a world both beautiful and cruel.

Raised in the safety of a loving home, with his mother’s gentle guidance and the care of Farmer Grey, Beauty’s days are peaceful—but beyond the familiar fields, an uncertain future awaits.

Even in this serene beginning, danger lurks just beyond the hedgerows, and Beauty’s first glimpse of human folly leaves a lasting scar on his young heart. When the reckless ploughboy, Dick, hurls stones at the playful colts, Beauty realizes that not all humans are kind, and not all endings are happy.

Yet, through it all, Beauty’s spirit shines. With every gallop through open fields and every quiet moment by his mother’s side, he grows stronger. Little does he know, this idyllic chapter of his life is only the calm before the storm. A journey of hardship, friendship, and unwavering courage is about to begin.

BRAIDED HORSEHAIR BRACELETS

Horsehair bracelets were historically worn as keepsakes, often made from the tail or mane of a beloved horse. This yarn version mimics the look of a real horsehair bracelet, using black and white yarn to represent Black Beauty’s signature colors. This simple yet elegant craft is a beautiful tribute to the novel’s themes of love and loyalty between horses and their caretakers.

In the heart of the countryside, Black Beauty witnesses a world far more brutal than his peaceful paddock. The pounding of hooves shatters the morning calm as the hunt races through the fields, a blur of red coats, baying hounds, and terrified prey.

Beauty watches in wide-eyed fear as men pursue a frightened hare, turning the serene landscape into a battleground of survival.

But what begins as sport soon turns tragic. A horse falls—its rider thrown violently to the ground.

The animal’s desperate cries pierce the air as the harsh reality of human ambition unfolds. In that moment, Beauty learns that trust can be fragile, and life can change in an instant.

As the echoes of the hunt fade, Beauty’s world feels different. The thrill of freedom is now shadowed by the fear of what lies beyond. Little does he know, this is only the first of many trials he will face, and the lessons of that day will haunt him forever.

DIY HOBBY HORSE

If you love Black Beauty and want to create your own DIY Hobby Horse, this tutorial will show you how to craft a fun and simple stick horse using a sock, stuffing, and a wooden stick.

Perfect for imaginative play, horse-themed parties, or a fun riding game, this project is great for kids and horse lovers alike! What will you name your new pet? Black Beauty? Merrylegs? Ginger?

Black Beauty’s carefree days in the meadow are over. The time has come for his breaking in—a journey from wild innocence to disciplined strength.

Squire Gordon’s hands guide him at first, teaching him to wear a bit, bridle, and saddle. But even the softest touch cannot shield him from the fear of the unknown. Every sound, every command, every tightening strap is a step away from freedom.

As Beauty learns to carry a rider and pull a carriage, the weight of his new life presses down. The sharp pull of the bit, the strain of the harness—each lesson is a test of his will.

But beneath the surface, Beauty’s spirit flickers like a flame, refusing to be extinguished.

Yet, the world demands more. Will Beauty’s strength carry him through the trials ahead, or will the weight of obedience break him? In this moment of transformation, one thing is certain: the path before him is filled with both promise and peril.

APPLE & CARROT SNACKS

If you love Black Beauty and want to make healthy, homemade treats for your own horse (or you), this apple and carrot snack recipe is perfect. Made with natural ingredients—apples, carrots, and honey—these treats are easy to make and loved by horses (and people). Have we mentioned that you’ll enjoy them too?

Black Beauty’s journey brings him to Birtwick Park, a grand estate filled with new faces and unknown challenges.

Under the care of the kind-hearted Squire Gordon and the skilled groom John Manly, Beauty’s days seem peaceful—but beneath the surface, tension brews. Every sound in the stable, every clatter of hooves, holds the promise of something more.

Here, Beauty meets the spirited Ginger, whose fiery temper hides a painful past, and the cheerful Merrylegs, whose playful charm masks the dangers that lie beyond the estate’s gates.

Together, they form an unbreakable bond, but life at Birtwick is not without its trials. Whispers of change linger in the air, and not all who visit the stables have kind intentions.

As Beauty settles into his new home, a question looms: how long can peace last in a world where humans hold the reins? Birtwick Park is only the beginning, and the path ahead is filled with heartbreak, loyalty, and an unyielding test of spirit.

‘GUESS THE HORSE BREED’ GAME

This game is a fun way to test your knowledge of horse breeds. You and your friends will take turns presenting pictures of different horses and give each other a chance to guess them. Don’t worry, we’ll provide some descriptions of horse breeds to help, and we’ll even describe the breeds in Black Beauty.

Black Beauty’s training is complete, and his new life is about to begin. With a gleaming coat and steady stride, he is ready to serve—but the road ahead is uncertain. At Birtwick Park, he has known kindness, but beyond its gates, the world is unpredictable, and every hoofbeat carries him closer to the unknown.

Squire Gordon and John Manly have prepared him well, yet even their care cannot shield him from what lies ahead.

Beauty’s strength and grace make him a prized possession, but will that be enough to protect him from cruelty? In a world where horses are often seen as tools rather than companions, trust is fragile, and every day brings new trials. As Beauty takes his first steps into this new chapter, one thing is clear: his journey will be filled with friendship and betrayal, love and loss—and the fight to keep his spirit unbroken has only just begun.

VICTORIAN SEED CAKE

Victorian seed cake is a traditional British sponge cake flavored with caraway seeds. Popular during the Victorian era, it was often served during afternoon tea or at social gatherings. Its origins date back to the 18th century, with mentions in classic literature like Jane Eyre and Agatha Christie’s works. The caraway seeds give the cake a distinctive, slightly anise-like flavor.

For Black Beauty, liberty was once a birthright—the freedom to gallop through open fields, the wind in his mane and the earth beneath his hooves. But in his new life of bridles and saddles, liberty is now a fleeting memory.

Each day is a delicate balance between obedience and the deep longing for freedom that still burns within him.

Under the care of Squire Gordon and John Manly, Beauty is treated well, but even the kindest of masters cannot erase the weight of captivity. The open pastures call to him, but the reins hold him back. Every locked gate, every tightened strap, is a reminder of what has been lost.

Yet Beauty’s spirit remains untamed.

As he watches the wild birds soar above him, a single question lingers: will he ever taste true freedom again, or will life’s harsh reins hold him forever in their grip? His journey is far from over—and the fight for liberty has only just begun.

HORSE MEMORY MATCHING GAME

This is a fun, hands-on way to engage with the horse-loving themes in Black Beauty. This game not only enhances memory and concentration but also encourages you to learn about horses, reflecting the deep connection between humans and horses seen in Anna Sewell’s beloved novel. The Horse Memory Matching Game is perfect for classrooms, book clubs, or family game night!

When Black Beauty meets Ginger, he sees more than just a fiery chestnut mare—he sees a soul scarred by cruelty and a temper forged by pain. Her sharp words and defiant spirit hide a past filled with harsh treatment and broken trust. But beneath her fierce exterior lies a heart longing for kindness.

As Ginger recounts the torment she endured at the hands of careless owners, Beauty realizes that not all horses are as fortunate as he has been. Her story is one of survival, but also of fear that the world will never change and kindness is fleeting.

Together, Beauty and Ginger form an uneasy bond. But as Beauty listens to her painful past, he can’t help but wonder: will Ginger’s rage be her downfall, or will friendship be enough to heal even the deepest wounds? The stable walls can’t hold the secrets they carry—and the hardest trials are yet to come.

HOW TO DRAW A HORSE

Learning how to draw a horse helps us connect with horses, as Anna Sewell’s novel vividly describes the grace and strength of these beautiful creatures. This art project gives us the opportunity to visualize and appreciate how these majestic animals are designed, while fostering creativity and attention to detail. Get out your pencils, erasers, paper, fine-tipped pens, and colored pencils!

Ginger’s story is far from over. As she reveals more of her painful past, Black Beauty is drawn into a world of cruelty he never imagined. From harsh bits that tore at her mouth to brutal hands that knew no kindness, Ginger’s life has been a constant battle between survival and despair.

Each memory she shares is a haunting reminder that not all humans see horses as companions, but as tools to be broken. Her spirit, once wild and free, has been scarred by relentless punishment and unending fear.

Yet, through her bitterness, there is still a spark—a hope that maybe, just maybe, life at Birtwick Park will be different. Can Ginger ever truly escape the ghosts of her past?

As Beauty listens, he can’t help but wonder: if such cruelty exists, what fate might await them both? The answers lie just beyond the stable doors, where danger and heartache wait in the shadows.

PERSONALIZED HORSE NAMEPLATES

In Black Beauty, horses had their own nameplates on stable stalls, symbolizing their identity and care. This craft lets you create a personalized nameplate for your favorite horse character, pet, or even yourself, inspired by the stables where Black Beauty lived. Just as Black Beauty’s name reflected his elegant appearance and identity, your crafted nameplate serves as a tribute to the novel’s rich setting and timeless themes of love and care for animals.

In the quiet stables of Birtwick Park, a new friend brings light to Black Beauty’s world—Merrylegs, the cheerful little pony with a heart as big as his playful spirit.

But behind his gentle eyes lies a secret strength, a quiet defiance against those who dare to mistreat him.

Merrylegs may be small, and his loyalty runs deep, as he carries the children with care and patience. Yet beneath his calm demeanor is a warning: hurt him once, and you will never ride him again. His charming nature hides an unspoken truth—every horse, no matter how kind, has its limits.

As Beauty watches Merrylegs navigate a world of both affection and potential cruelty, one question remains: how long can kindness protect them from the harsh realities that lurk beyond Birtwick Park? In a world where trust is fragile, even the smallest of horses must stand tall—or risk being broken.

RUSTIC FARMHOUSE BREAD WITH BUTTER

This hearty farmhouse bread, inspired by Black Beauty, reflects the simple, wholesome meals found in the countryside. Served with fresh butter, it’s a comforting reminder of the rural life and people surrounding Squire and Mistress Gordon’s country estate.

In the peaceful orchard of Birtwick Park, beneath the shade of rustling leaves, Black Beauty, Ginger, and Merrylegs share more than just the warmth of the afternoon—they share their fears, their hopes, and their haunting pasts.

What begins as a quiet moment quickly becomes a revelation of the cruelty horses endure at the hands of careless masters.

Ginger’s fiery resentment flares as she recounts the harshness she’s known, while Merrylegs, ever the optimist, tries to lighten the mood—but even he cannot ignore the dark truths they face. Beauty listens, realizing that kindness is a fragile gift, one that not all horses are fortunate to receive.

As the conversation unfolds, an unspoken question lingers in the air: how long will their safe haven last?

With every passing day, the threat of an uncertain future grows closer, and the bond they share may be the only thing strong enough to carry them through the trials that await.

VICTORIAN FARMHOUSE STEW

This Victorian Farmhouse Stew represents the kind of simple, nourishing meal that would have been served in rural homes. Just as the novel emphasizes the importance of kindness and proper care for animals, this meal reflects the hardworking people who tended to them. It’s a perfect dish to enjoy while reading Black Beauty on a cozy evening with your loved ones.

In the stillness of the stable, plain words cut deeper than any whip. In Plain Speaking, Black Beauty listens as John Manly, the steadfast groom, dares to voice what others won’t—the harsh truth about the cruelty horses endure at human hands.

His words are not softened, his anger not hidden, as he condemns those who see these noble creatures as mere tools.

Beauty watches, his heart pounding, as John’s passion spills forth. But as the echoes of his words hang in the air, one question remains: will speaking the truth bring justice, or will the relentless cruelty of the world trample even the bravest voices beneath its hooves? For Black Beauty, the answer could mean the difference between hope and despair.

LEATHER LOOK LUGGAGE TAGS

Inspired by 19th-century travel, this leather-look luggage tag is a stylish and functional tribute to the novel. It mimics the elegant yet sturdy luggage tags used in Victorian times while serving as a practical travel accessory. This craft is a reminder of the importance of care, responsibility, and humane treatment—whether for horses or for our own belongings today.

Dark clouds gather over Birtwick Park, and a fierce storm begins to rage. In this chapter, Beauty faces not just the fury of nature, but the terrifying challenge of keeping his riders safe through pounding rain and deafening thunder. Each hoofbeat is a race against disaster as the wind howls and lightning splits the sky.

But the storm’s wrath is only the beginning. A crumbling bridge stands in their path, hidden by the swirling waters below. With danger closing in, Beauty must make a choice—trust his instincts or risk everything. As the storm surges around them, every second matters. Will Beauty’s bravery be enough to save them, or will this storm leave a mark that can never be erased?

In this moment of peril, one truth becomes clear: courage is not the absence of fear, but the strength to face it.

HORSESHOE TOSS GAME

Horseshoes are an essential part of a horse’s care, and in Black Beauty, they symbolize the hard work of blacksmiths and the strength of horses. This classic game is a fun way to bring the story to life while enjoying a bit of friendly competition.

In this chapter, Black Beauty learns that not all cruelty comes from a whip—sometimes, it’s hidden in plain sight. The bearing rein, a cruel device forced upon horses to hold their heads unnaturally high, becomes a silent symbol of torment. Beauty listens in horror as John Manly and Squire Gordon condemn this dreadful practice, knowing too well the pain it inflicts.

But the world beyond Birtwick Park is filled with those who value appearance over compassion. For the horses subjected to this torture, each day is a battle between obedience and agony. Beauty shudders at the thought: could this cruel device ever find its way to him?

Black Beauty realizes that even the most well-meaning humans may not always be there to protect him. Will his strength and spirit endure, or will the devil’s trade mark break him like so many before? The fight for dignity has only just begun.

BLACK BEAUTY TRIVIA GAME

Let’s compete to answer trivia questions about Black Beauty to test our knowledge and earn points. The player with the most correct answers wins! Questions such as: Who is the author of Black Beauty? What is the name of Black Beauty’s mother? Who was Black Beauty’s first kind owner? Have fun playing!

A new figure steps into Black Beauty’s life—a young stable boy with a kind heart and a fierce determination to prove himself. James may be inexperienced, but his loyalty to the horses is unwavering. Yet, in a world where even the smallest mistake can have dire consequences, his journey is fraught with challenges.

As James navigates the demands of the stables under the watchful eye of John Manly, danger lurks beyond the gates. One misstep could cost him his job, and Beauty senses the weight of responsibility pressing down on the young boy’s shoulders.

But when a sudden crisis puts James to the ultimate test, the question arises: will his courage and quick thinking be enough to protect those he cares for? In a place where trust is earned and every decision matters, James’s story is only just beginning.

WOOL FELTED BLACK BEAUTY

Creating a wool felted horse inspired by Black Beauty is a lovely way to pay tribute to Anna Sewell’s timeless novel. This craft embodies the grace and elegance of Black Beauty while giving you a hands-on project that reflects the care and compassion seen throughout the book.

In The Old Hostler, Black Beauty and Ginger find themselves in unfamiliar surroundings at an inn while Squire Gordon travels far from home. Left in the care of young James Howard, the horses face an uncertain night. But when an old hostler steps forward, his quiet confidence and skilled hands reveal a lifetime of experience.

Despite his age, the hostler’s gentle touch and understanding of horses bring a surprising sense of calm. Yet, even with his steady care, James remains watchful—knowing that a single night away from home can change everything.

Will the journey pass without incident, or will the unpredictable world outside the stable doors test their trust once again? In the quiet stillness of the inn, Beauty’s fate hangs in the balance, and the road ahead remains uncertain.

FARMHOUSE PORRIDGE WITH HONEY

This simple, hearty porridge reflects the rustic countryside setting of Black Beauty, where warm, nourishing meals were staples in farm life. A bowl of creamy porridge with a drizzle of honey feels like a comforting embrace, much like the warmth and kindness Black Beauty experienced in his early days.

Flames crackle in the dead of night, thick smoke curling through the stable as panic spreads like wildfire. Black Beauty awakens to a nightmare—sparks flying, hooves stamping, and terrified neighs echoing through the darkness. The cause? A careless hostler, whose lit pipe brought disaster into the very heart of the stable.

As the fire grows, consuming everything in its path, James Howard races against the inferno, determined to save Beauty and the other horses. Every second counts, every move is a gamble. The heat is unbearable, the fear overwhelming—but survival hangs by a thread.

Will courage be enough to escape the flames, or will this fiery night mark the end of Beauty’s story before it’s even truly begun? In a world where danger can strike without warning, the fight for life has never burned brighter.

LEATHER BRIDLE KEYCHAIN

This leather bridle keychain reflects the essential gear that horses like Black Beauty wore throughout their lives. As you craft each strap, it brings to mind the care and responsibility that Sewell’s characters displayed towards their horses. It’s a small, thoughtful reminder of the kindness woven throughout Black Beauty.

In John Manly’s Talk, change looms over Birtwick Park as James Howard prepares to leave. But John Manly knows the stable cannot be left untended. With time running out, he turns to James with a plan—to train young Joe Green, an eager but inexperienced boy, to take his place.

Can someone so young handle the weight of responsibility that comes with caring for the horses? Beauty senses the uncertainty as James’ words echo through the stable. One wrong decision could spell disaster, but the right choice could secure their safety.

As James wrestles with the decision, the question remains: will Joe rise to the challenge, or will inexperience put them all at risk? With change on the horizon, trust must be built, and time is running out before James leaves.

PAINT A COUNTRYSIDE LANDSCAPE

The serene countryside in Black Beauty represents freedom, beauty, and simplicity. Painting a countryside landscape allows you to capture the lush fields, winding paths, and peaceful skies that Black Beauty roamed, bringing the novel’s vivid setting to life. Each brushstroke echoes the peace and natural beauty that shaped Black Beauty’s early days.

A desperate knock in the dead of night shatters the silence at Birtwick Park. Black Beauty is roused from his sleep, thrust into a race against time. Squire Gordon’s wife is gravely ill, and only a doctor can save her—but a storm rages with relentless fury.

Through pounding rain and howling wind, Beauty gallops into the darkness, every stride a battle against the elements. The road is treacherous, the night unforgiving, and the weight of a life hangs heavy on his back. One slip, one stumble, could mean disaster—not just for Beauty, but for the family he has grown to trust.

Will Beauty’s strength and courage be enough to outrun the storm and bring help in time? As thunder roars and danger looms, the journey ahead is perilous, and failure is not an option. The clock is ticking… and every second counts.

HORSE SHAPED BOOKMARK

This horse-shaped bookmark is a fun and creative way to celebrate Black Beauty while keeping your place in your favorite book. Inspired by the novel’s themes of companionship and adventure, this bookmark will be a perfect addition to any book lover’s collection. Bonus points for making a Black Beauty bookmark for your Black Beauty book!

Tragedy strikes not from cruelty, but from something far more dangerous—ignorance. Young Joe Green, eager but inexperienced, makes a heartbreaking mistake while caring for Black Beauty after a grueling night’s ride. His innocent error nearly costs Beauty his life, leaving the stable in shock and turmoil.

As Beauty fights through pain, the weight of what could have been hangs heavy in the air. Joe’s remorse is palpable, but will regret be enough to earn forgiveness—and trust? In a world where even the smallest misstep can have devastating consequences, the line between innocence and negligence is razor-thin.

Will Beauty recover from this near-fatal error? And can Joe Green prove that ignorance, once recognized, can be transformed into wisdom? The stakes have never been higher, and the lessons have never been harsher.

TRADITIONAL ENGLISH TEA WITH BISCUITS

Traditional English Tea with Biscuits is a quintessential British custom dating back to the 19th century. Afternoon tea became a social event where tea was served alongside a variety of snacks, including biscuits, scones, and finger sandwiches. Together, tea and biscuits offer a comforting, timeless pairing that remains a beloved tradition in many British households today.

In Joe Green, young Joe faces more than just the weight of his own past mistakes—he witnesses the brutal cruelty of another rider, a harsh reminder of the world’s dark realities. With courage far beyond his years, Joe steps forward, his testimony placing him before a magistrate and into the heart of a battle for justice.

Black Beauty watches as Joe’s words challenge those who believe power excuses cruelty. The courtroom becomes a place where truth hangs in the balance, and Joe’s bravery could mean the difference between punishment and impunity.

Will Joe’s bold stand bring justice for the mistreated horse, or will the cruelty he witnessed go unpunished? In a world where silence often prevails, one boy’s voice rises against the odds—and the consequences could change everything.

SCOTTISH OAT CAKES

In Anna Sewell’s classic novel Black Beauty, oat cakes are mentioned as a treat for horses. While the book doesn’t provide a specific recipe, traditional Scottish oat cakes can serve as an inspiration. These oat cakes are simple, hearty biscuits made primarily from oats, and can be enjoyed by both humans and, in moderation, horses.

The walls of Birtwick Park echo with heartbreak as Black Beauty’s world is torn apart. Squire Gordon’s family, once Beauty’s source of comfort and care, must leave their beloved home—and with them goes the life Beauty has known. Change looms like a dark cloud, and the horses face an uncertain future.

As Beauty and Ginger stand side by side, the fear of separation grips them. New owners, unknown stables, and the harsh reality of being sold weigh heavily on their minds. Every farewell is a reminder that nothing lasts forever.

Will Beauty find kindness in his new life, or will he be thrust into a world of hardship and cruelty? As the carriage carrying the Gordons disappears into the distance, one thing is clear—Beauty’s journey is far from over, and the trials that await him will test his strength like never before.

HOT MILK WITH HONEY

In Black Beauty, set in 19th-century England, warm milk with honey would have been a comforting and nourishing drink. This soothing beverage would have been enjoyed in the evenings after a long day’s work on the farm, offering nourishment and relaxation. Inspired by the era, here’s a simple recipe reminiscent of what might have been enjoyed during that time.