Black Beauty has endured for ages—and not just with Bronies, so stop smirking. (For the uninitiated, Bronies are adult fans of My Little Pony.) Though it was written to teach and not entertain, it's the story part that's captured readers' attention for more than 130 years. Girls especially love the book, though it resonates with boys and adults also. This novel has made it onto list after list of literary classics..

The main character is strong and good, without guile but also without a way of determining his fate. Some of the situations shown in the story make the reader's heart hurt, which can be a good thing if it draws out sympathy (or empathy if they've been mistreated) and discussion. Lots of discussion.