Justin Morgan Had a Horse

If you went to Vermont, back in the time of the late 1700s... you would meet Justin Morgan. He was a man who had a problem. It all started because a farmer owed Justin some money. The farmer couldn't pay the debt, so instead, he gave a horse. To some people, that would be a wonderful thing to receive, but Justin didn't need a horse. He needed money. One might say, "Sell the horse"--but that's just the problem. No one wants to use their money on a small, (VERY small), scrawny animal, who is weak and cannot work like other horses. Since no one will buy poor Little Bub, Justin is indeed stuck with him. See what can happen that turns this story upside-down when Justin Morgan's friend decides to help out. Why, even President Monroe takes notice! This book tells a true story. I liked the book because while I was reading it, I knew that it actually happened. In fact, Little Bub's tale became an American legend. This is a delightful horse story, great for boys & girls to read (ages 9 and up).

Justin Morgan Had a Horse is but one of many horse stories brought to life by Marguerite Henry. She has(had?) a skill for creating a fictionalized history based on a true set of events. This book is truly compelling, as is Black Gold, and others of her books. To some the style is dated. To our youth, I doubt it. This book seems timeless.

Some of the vocabulary is a bit old-fashioned, but my daughter and I enjoyed this book. It is also a great glimpse into early American life.

Justin Morgan Had a Horse: A Newbery Honor Book Excellent! A classic everyone who loves horses should read!

Justin Morgan Had A Horse is about a Singing Master and one of his students. Of all of her books this is one of her best books I've read, and I've read almost all of her books