The Stallion and His Peculiar Boy

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. 

The Stallion and His Peculiar Boy by M.J. Evans 

1st – 9th March

Genre:  Young Adult/Adult Historical Fiction

Blurb 

“The exquisite blend of historical fact and intricate details about autism are wound into a novel replete with much attraction, making for a highly recommended pick.” Midwest Book Review

“Readers will fall in love with Evans’ masterful plotline and stunning use of descriptive imagery.” Maincrest Media Review

“Evans brings history to life in this fictional account, one so rich in detail and realism that you are enfolded in the fabric of the story.” Readers’ Favorite Review

World War II is raging. Hitler is hiding away the world’s most beautiful purebred horses in a little village in Czechoslovakia. Lipizzaners, Thoroughbreds, and the prize Polish Arabians are being used in his experiments to create the perfect war horse. 

A peculiar twelve-year-old boy from the village named Teodor becomes the groom for one of those special horses – Witez II, one of the most famous Arabian stallions of all time. Witez, helps the boy face his challenges and find his voice at a time when little is known about the condition now called “Autism.” 

In the closing days of the war, Teodor flees the only home he has ever known, with Witez, to escape the oncoming Soviet Army. To stay would mean the loss of his horse to the hungry soldiers. Together, they seek refuge in America, where a new life awaits them both. 

Told in part through the fictional character of Teodor and sensitive to his therapeutic and devoted bond with Witez over the years, The Stallion and His Peculiar Boy blends the suspense of a World War II military rescue operation with the subsequent challenges of resettlement in a new land.

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MY REVIEW

What could a poor little boy with Autism do during WWII? We know that Autism wasn’t defined during this time period, but we love learning about Teodor. His wise mother sent her son to groom a horse that he had really connected with.

During the war the Germans had collected hundreds of horses to use in the military campaigns. Hundreds were kept at Hostau and so they needed many people to watch them and protect. As the Russian army closes in on Hostau, they knew that the horses would be slaughtered for food.

Moving the horses to the American line was the only way to save them. Although the readers may be looking at the history in this book, there is much to see in the relationships. Teodor and his horse Witez II had a deep connection and the boy made great progress through the experience.