The Horsecatcher facts for kids
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| Author | Mari Sandoz |
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| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Young adult historical novel |
| Publisher | Westminster Press |
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Publication date
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1957 |
| Media type | |
| Pages | 192 pp |
| ISBN | 9780803291607 |
The Horsecatcher is an exciting historical novel written by American author Mari Sandoz. It was published in 1957. This book is a story for young adults, perfect for readers aged 12-15. The Horsecatcher was recognized as a Newbery Medal Honor Book in 1958. This is a very important award for children's literature. Mari Sandoz dedicated her book to two important Cheyenne leaders named Elk River. One was a keeper of sacred items. The other was known as the best horsecatcher on the High Plains. This story is about a young Cheyenne boy who dreams of catching wild horses.
The Story of Elk
The story of The Horsecatcher takes place in the 1830s. Our main character is a young Southern Cheyenne boy named Elk. Unlike many boys his age, Elk doesn't really like fancy ceremonies or fighting. He's not very interested in hunting either. He has completed his special coming-of-age fast. But no one quite understands what his dream meant.
Elk knows his father, Elk River, and his uncle, Owl Friend, are a bit disappointed in him. His older brother, Two Wolves, also expects him to be more like a warrior. But Elk cannot help what he feels inside. He wants to become a tamer of wild horses.
When we first meet Elk, he has secretly left his village. He is on a lone hunt for a special wild horse called Bear Colt. He faces many difficulties and dangers. He even almost gets hurt by some of his own tribe members by accident. But he succeeds in catching Bear Colt! This success is worth the scolding he gets from his family.
Over the next two years, Elk learns more about his chosen path. He also deals with misunderstandings from his tribe. One time, he bravely warns his village about approaching Kiowa raiders. He even kills one with his rabbit bow. Yet, he doesn't see this as a big achievement. Later, his brother is killed in a battle. Elk then helps save the tribe's important sacred items. He travels deep into Kiowa land, alone and scared. He goes to find and bury his brother's remains. In a culture that values horses so much, it's surprising that no one seems to understand how much Elk could help his tribe.
Main Characters
Here are the main characters you'll meet in The Horsecatcher:
- Elk – He is the main character of the story. He dreams of catching and taming wild horses.
- Elk River – He is Elk's father and a leader of their group.
- Owl Friend – He is Elk's uncle. He started a warrior society.
- Two Wolves – He is Elk's older brother.
- Bear Colt – This is a special black wild horse. It has a white mark on its side that looks like a bear.
Film Adaptations
As of 2016, a movie based on The Horsecatcher was being planned.
Awards and Recognition
- Newbery Medal Honor Book in 1958.
