The Horse and His Boy
C. S. Lewis
The Horse and His Boy
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by C. S. Lewis
Illustrated by Pauline Baynes
The text is written at a 6th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content is mild with minimal sensitive material.
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About This Book
The sharp scent of the salty sea breeze fills Shasta’s lungs as he races alongside a talking horse, hooves pounding against the rocky shore. Far from the only boy in hiding, Shasta’s journey takes him across vast deserts and towering mountains, where secrets whisper on the wind and danger lurks in the shadows. With every step, he edges closer to discovering who he truly is—and why his heart belongs to the North.
Themes
Quick Assessment
Set during the Golden Age of Narnia, this classic fantasy follows a young boy named Shasta who escapes his life as a fisherman's son to uncover his true identity and destiny. The story involves themes of adventure, identity, and family, with mild peril appropriate for middle-grade readers ages 9 to 12. Illustrations enhance the narrative, making it accessible and engaging for this age group.
For Parents
Content Intensity
Level 2 — MildLight conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.
Content Flags
Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
2/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
3/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9780061125249
- Pages
- 240
- Publisher
- HarperCollins
- Published
- September 1, 2006
- Type
- Fiction