The Winter Horses

By Philip Kerr

A breathtaking journey of survival in WWII by New York Times bestselling author Philip Kerr, for fans of War Horse.

This children's book from New York Times bestselling author Philip Kerr is a WWII story of survival, for fans of War Horse. It tells of one girl's incredible bravery as she fights to save two rare horses from Nazi extermination. In the midst of another freezing winter, Max, the devoted caretaker of a wildlife reserve, must learn to live with the Nazis who have overrun his land. He must also learn to keep secrets, for there is a girl, Kalinka, who is hiding in the park. Kalinka has lost her home, her family, her belongings – everything but her life. Still, she has gained one small, precious gift: a relationship with the rare wild and wily Przewalski's horses that wander the reservation. Apart from Max, these endangered animals are her only friends until a Nazi campaign of extermination nearly wipes them out for good. Now Kalinka must set out on a treacherous journey through the frozen Ukrainian forest to save the only two surviving horses – and herself. This sensitive, inspiring tale captures the power of sacrifice, the endurance of the human spirit and the astonishing loyalty of animals.

Categories: Fiction

For readers aged: 11+

Publication details:
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781406360011
Published: 01 Jan 2015
Price: £6.99

Size: 198 x 129 mm
Pages: 288

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Customer reviews

Reviews

'A treat for ten-plus, written with filmic pace and polish' New Statesman

'A thrilling book . . . Highly recommended for 11 plus, and adults will enjoy it, too' Historical Novel Review

'An unusual and appealing animal story, all the more effective because it includes real life events' Books for Keeps

'This is an extraordinary story…and a great read which will appeal to all readers…' The School Librarian

'I’d say this was an insightful book, moving, exciting and adventurous; I’m so glad I chose it.' Teen Titles

'Covering a very harsh and difficult time in history, the characterisation is strong, and we identify with Maxim appreciating the tensions around his relationship with the German commander. The vastness of the Russian steppe comes over, as do the terrible consequences of invasion.' Carousel

'Compassionate and heart-warming, this is a superbly told tale of loyalty, human and animal. A real page-turner which will have the reader on tenterhooks throughout.' Parents in Touch

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