71 pages 2 hours read

Geraldine Brooks

Horse

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Horse by Geraldine Brooks intertwines three storylines across different time periods: in 1850, an enslaved teenager named Jarret cares for a foal that becomes the famous racehorse Lexington; in 1954, art gallerist Martha Jackson discovers a valuable painting of Lexington; and in 2019, art history student Theo and osteologist Jess uncover Lexington's story. The novel contains depictions of enslavement, racism, animal neglect, and violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Geraldine Brooks' Horse is praised for its meticulous research and compelling narrative, blending historical fiction with themes of race and legacy. Critics appreciate the vivid characters and the rich, evocative prose. However, some feel the pacing slows at times and that certain historical details may overshadow the story. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read with strong emotional impact.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Horse?

Readers who relish historical fiction with rich character development and intricate plots will enjoy Horse by Geraldine Brooks. Fans of works like All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr or The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead will appreciate the blend of history, drama, and emotional depth in this novel.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Topics

Animals

Race / Racism

Sports

Themes

Values/Ideas: Art

Natural World: Animals

Life/Time: The Past

Period

American Civil War