Black Beauty

An Audible Original Drama

By: Anna Sewell, R. D. Carstairs - adaptation

Narrated by: Samuel West, Samantha Bond, Tamzin Outhwaite, Paul Thornley, Matt Stokoe

Framed as a first-person narrative from the eponymous horse, this much-loved family classic follows Black Beauty's journey from a well-born colt to a painfully overworked cab horse. Brimming with vivid detail and relatable characters, each chapter of Black Beauty's long and varied life communicates an important message about kindness, sympathy and understanding.

Following the success of the double Audie award-winning Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book: The Mowgli Stories, Audible Originals UK are excited to announce this reimagination of Sewell's unique concept as an animal-based audio drama for all the family.

Black Beauty features lead performances from Samuel West (BAFTA nominated; Mr Selfridge, Howards End), Samantha Bond (SAG nominated; Downton Abbey, James Bond), Paul Thornley (Harry Potter & the Cursed Child, Les Misérables) and Tamzin Outhwaite (EastEnders, Great Expectations, Foyle's War) as well as the original theme music 'Galloping Home' by Denis King.

Public Domain (P)2017 Audible, Ltd

Critic reviews

"Get ready to laugh, cry and sigh with nostalgia as everyone's favourite fictional horse makes a comeback." (Horse & Countryside)

"Perfect for the whole family to listen to together." (The Week)

Good for an 1877 novel

Great performance and voices. This novel was written in 1877 and its depiction of horse mistreatment led to major animal rights reform for horses. It’s a little sad to listen to how horses could be mistreated, and the writing has a lot of simplistic “life lessons” similar to the book little women, but also gives insight into what life was like in the late 19th century. This was my first time to read it (I am in my 30s) but I see why it is considered one of those classics used in schools.

So endearing

Really pleasant listen

Just the right amount of drama without turning depressing

Overall a happy sweet and easy to listen to story

One of the best Black Beauty adaptations

As a lifelong fan of this story, it was really well told and acted well. It is very true to the book I’ve loved so much. I definitely recommend this adaptation for any fan of the book or any horse fan for that matter.

Loved the story!

I had not heard this story before, but it was very heartwarming. It teaches compassion and love, not only for animals, but also people. I will listen to it again, and also share it with my children and grandchildren!

Great book

Great book for kids 10+. This book is a free book, and is easy to fallow.