Title: Shadow
Author: Michael Morpurgo
First published September 30, 2010
288 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780007339594 (ISBN10: 0007339593)
Rating: 4.23
Overview
Michael Morpurgo’s latest novel, Shadow, is a heartwarming tale that will leave readers in awe. Follow the journey of a courageous sniffer dog named Shadow and a young Afghan boy as they navigate the challenges of war.
Through their unwavering loyalty and determination, they prove that even in the darkest of times, hope and love can still prevail. This is a must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure and a touching story of friendship.
About the Author
Meet Sir Michael Andrew Morpurgo, a prolific children’s book author whose works have been adapted into five films. His talents extend beyond writing, as he also creates his own screenplays and libretti for opera.
He was born in St Albans, Hertfordshire in 1943, and was evacuated to Cumberland during the final years of World War II. After returning to London and later moving to Essex, he briefly served in the army before becoming a teacher and eventually pursuing writing full-time.
Sir Morpurgo left teaching after a decade to establish “Farms for City Children” with his wife, which offers inner-city school children the opportunity to stay and work with animals on their three farms in Devon, Wales, and Gloucestershire. Their efforts were publicly recognized in 1999 when they were invested as Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for their services to youth.
Sir Morpurgo was later elevated to Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003 and became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature (FRSL) in 2004. In 2018, he was knighted for his contributions to literature and charity.
Sir Morpurgo is a proud father and grandfather, and children have always been a significant part of his life. He and his family visit the Scilly Isles every year, which serves as the setting for three of his books.
Editoral Review
Shadow by Michael Morpurgo is a heart-wrenching story that explores the powerful bond between a boy and his horse. Morpurgo, a prolific British children’s author, is known for his poignant and thought-provoking stories that tackle complex themes such as war, loss, and identity.
Shadow, published in 2010, is no exception, as it delves into the emotional and physical toll of war on both humans and animals.
At its core, Shadow is a story about a boy named Aman who is forced to flee his home in Afghanistan with his mother and sister after their village is destroyed by the Taliban. Along the way, they encounter a white stallion that Aman names Shadow, and the three of them form an unbreakable bond.
However, their journey is fraught with danger and uncertainty, as they must navigate through treacherous terrain, evade enemy soldiers, and confront their own fears and insecurities.
Despite its seemingly simple plot, Shadow is a masterful work of storytelling that blends history, culture, and adventure seamlessly. Morpurgo’s writing is evocative and vivid, transporting readers to the rugged landscapes of Afghanistan and immersing them in the characters’ struggles and triumphs.
The horse, Shadow, is a central character in the story, and Morpurgo imbues him with a sense of dignity and intelligence that is both moving and awe-inspiring.
One of the strengths of Shadow is its ability to convey complex themes and ideas in a way that is accessible to young readers. Morpurgo does not shy away from the harsh realities of war and displacement, but he presents them in a way that is age-appropriate and sensitive.
The book also explores the idea of cultural identity and the connections between people and animals, themes that are both timely and relevant.
However, there are some weaknesses in Shadow that prevent it from being a perfect novel. At times, the pacing can feel slow and meandering, and some of the characters lack depth and complexity.
Additionally, the ending may be predictable for some readers, which could undermine the emotional impact of the story.
Despite these flaws, Shadow is a book that is worth reading for its powerful themes, compelling characters, and beautiful prose. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring bonds that can be formed between people and animals.
Fans of Morpurgo’s other works, such as War Horse and Private Peaceful, will not be disappointed with this latest addition to his oeuvre.
In conclusion, Shadow is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that will resonate with readers of all ages. While it may not be perfect, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, and it is a testament to Michael Morpurgo’s talent as a storyteller.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in exploring the complexities of war, culture, and identity, and who is looking for a moving and inspiring read. On a scale of 1 to 10, I would give Shadow an 8, based on its compelling characters, evocative writing, and powerful themes.
