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War Horse


Synopsis


I want you to do yourself proud, Joey. You go and drive those Germans back where they've come from, and then come home to me.

At the outbreak of World War one, Joey, young Albert's beloved horse, is sold to the cavalry and shipped to France. Caught up in enemy fire, fate takes Joey on an extraordinary odyssey, serving on both sides before finding himself alone in no man's land. But Albert cannot forget Joey and, still not old enough to enlist, he embarks on a treacherous mission to find him and bring him home.

Nick Stafford's adaptation for the stage of the celebrated novel by the Children's Laureate (2003-05) Michael Morpurgo leads us on a gripping journey through history. War Horse premiered at the National Theatre, London, in October 2007.

Summary

Chapter 1: Joey

Joey, a handsome foal, is born into the warmth of Devon, England. The narrator introduces Joey's innocent and inquisitive nature, which blossoms under the care of Albert Narracott.

Example: "Joey, his great-granny's name, had a soft chestnut coat, a darker chestnut mane and tail, and four white socks. He had eyes that sparkled like glass and that were full of questions."

Chapter 2: Market Day

Albert's father, Ted, faces financial hardship and decides to sell Joey at the market. Despite his determination to keep the horse, Albert fails to convince his father.

Example: "Ted put the money in his waistcoat pocket and patted Joey on the neck. 'It's been a pleasure knowing you, young 'un,' he said."

Chapter 3: Farewell to the Farm

Joey bids farewell to the other animals on the farm, and his heart sinks as he boards the train to take him away. Albert watches him leave, filled with both sadness and hope.

Example: "Joey looked at the horses and cows, the pigs and sheep, and he neighed a sad goodbye."

Chapter 4: The Camp

Joey arrives at an army training camp and is introduced to the harsh realities of war. He is assigned to Captain Nicholls, a compassionate but stern man.

Example: "The camp was a hive of activity, with soldiers drilling, horses being trained, and cannons roaring."

Chapter 5: The Front Lines

Joey and Nicholls are sent to the front lines in France. They witness the horrors of war firsthand, and Joey is traumatized by the constant shelling and gunfire.

Example: "Joey reared up in terror as a shell exploded nearby, sending shrapnel flying through the air."

Chapter 6: The Nightfall

In the chaos of battle, Joey is separated from Nicholls and ends up alone in the darkness. He is injured, lost, and afraid.

Example: "Joey stumbled and fell, his leg giving way. He lay there, shivering and alone, as the night closed in."

Chapter 7: The Rescue

Joey is rescued by a young German soldier named Michael. Despite their war-torn circumstances, Michael treats Joey with kindness and compassion.

Example: "Michael led Joey to a barn and bandaged his leg. He gave him food and water, and he spoke to him in a gentle voice."

Chapter 8: The Long Journey Home

Joey's journey home is a perilous one. He is passed from hand to hand, witnessing both the brutality and humanity of those he encounters.

Example: "Joey was used to pull a wagon, to carry supplies, and even to charge into battle. He endured hardships and dangers, but he never gave up hope."

Chapter 9: The End of the War

Finally, the war comes to an end, and Joey is reunited with Albert, who has never given up searching for him.

Example: "The sight of Joey standing there, alive and well, almost made Albert's heart burst with joy. He ran forward and embraced his horse, tears streaming down his face."