Anna Sewell

The Author of Black Beauty:

• One-Hit Wonder: Anna Sewell (1820-1878) was a British novelist known for her single published work, the immensely popular children's classic Black Beauty (1877). Though considered a children's book today, Sewell originally intended it for a wider audience, particularly those who interacted with horses.

• A Life Shaped by Horses: Born in Great Yarmouth, England, Sewell's early experiences with horses were significant. A childhood accident left her with limited mobility, and horses became a primary means of transportation. This firsthand perspective on their treatment likely influenced her writing.

• Driven by Advocacy: Sewell's passion for horses extended to their welfare. Black Beauty is narrated by the horse itself, highlighting the harsh realities of horse treatment in 19th-century England. The book is credited with raising awareness of animal cruelty and advocating for better treatment of horses.

• A Labor of Love: Sewell's health declined throughout her life, and Black Beauty was written during a period when she was often confined to bed. She dictated the text to her mother and later used scraps of paper for notes, demonstrating her dedication to completing the novel.

• A Lasting Legacy: Despite being published just five months before her death, Black Beauty became a bestseller. It's still cherished today, translated into numerous languages, and continues to inspire empathy and understanding for animals.