Thunderhead By Mary O'Hara 1943 Hardcover
$ 7.92
Description
Thunderhead By Mary O'Hara 1943 Hardcover. A Test of Character : During his first race, Thunderhead suffers an injury that ends his professional career. Later, when the Albino attacks Ken and steals the family’s mares, Thunderhead fights and kills the wild stallion to save Ken. Published in 1943, Thunderhead is the second book in Mary O’Hara’s "Wyoming Trilogy," serving as the sequel to the classic My Friend Flicka . The story focuses on the bond between a young boy named Ken McLaughlin and his horse, as well as the internal dynamics of his ranching family in the American West. Plot Summary The Birth of Thunderhead : Ken’s beloved mare, Flicka, gives birth to an all-white colt. Ken's mother, Nell, names him Thunderhead after the towering white clouds in the sky. Ken's Ambition : Ken believes the colt has the potential to be a champion racehorse. He hopes that training Thunderhead will save his family’s ranch from near-bankruptcy. The Wild Heritage : Thunderhead is the grandson of "the Albino," a legendary wild stallion that has been a menace to local ranchers. As Thunderhead grows, his wild, rebellious instincts make him difficult to tame. A Test of Character : During his first race, Thunderhead suffers an injury that ends his professional career. Later, when the Albino attacks Ken and steals the family’s mares, Thunderhead fights and kills the wild stallion to save Ken. Themes of Freedom : Ultimately, Ken realizes that Thunderhead is meant to be a "king" of the wild rather than a captive racehorse. In a poignant moment of maturity, Ken removes the horse's halter and lets him roam free. Key Themes Maturity and Fortitude : The book explores Ken's growth as he learns to handle "bitter disappointment" with the readiness to move forward. Family Relationships : Unlike many "horse stories," Thunderhead delves deeply into the complex and often strained relationship between Ken’s parents, Rob and Nell . Human-Animal Bond : It highlights the deep loyalty and mutual respect between a boy and his horse
