Is Warhorse suitable for a 9yo?

[ChaosTrulyReigns]

I've heard it's very upsetting - Perhaps I should just read it first myself to find out?

Anyone else read it? Or have your DC read it?

[mouseanon]

My 7 yr old has read it. Had some very searching questions about war after but wasn't upset by it.

[madamehooch]

Get them 'Not Bad for a Bad Lad' by Morpurgo instead. No need to read that one first and it's wonderful!

[Emzar]

I would be happy with a 9 year-old of mine reading it - there are descriptions of battles in it, but it's in no way gory or graphic.

[chr0nic]

I thought it was great but really not suitable for a 9 year old. Not only is it terribly sad but there are some rather graphic battle descriptions in it and very explicit details of terrible suffering. I am also not sure that a 9 year old would understand the over-riding theme of the futility of war either. The theatre production is not recommended for kids under 11 I think.

[CornishTwinMoominMamma]

It's a bit 'meh' actually - there are way better Morpurgos. I read it recently because I wanted to see the National Theatre production. It's fine for a nine year old but not particularly gripping.

[Idratherbemuckingout]

Why not try The Midwinter Child - exciting and not sad!

[CoffeeGoneColdAgain]

Ds has just read this, he is just 11! he said it was a great book, was sad but not too upsetting!

[ChaosTrulyReigns]

Thanks ssam.

I'll give it a go.

Just a bit fed up with reading books before the DDs do.

I have a list that I'm trying to work throufh for me as well.

[sethstarkaddersmackerel]

I've read it, yes it is sad but not inappropriate.