What inspired Michael Morpurgo's book War Horse?

Michael Morpurgo's book War Horse was inspired by a moment when a boy, who was electively mute, found his voice while talking to a horse on his farm.

When was Farms for City Children founded and by whom?

Farms for City Children was founded in 1976 by Michael and Clare Morpurgo at Nethercott House in Devon.

How many children has Farms for City Children helped?

Since its founding, Farms for City Children has provided transformative experiences to over 105,000 children.

Home / Education / Boy Finds Voice with Horse, Inspires Classic Tale

Boy Finds Voice with Horse, Inspires Classic Tale

1 Feb

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Summary

A mute boy found his voice speaking to a horse on a farm.
This moment inspired Michael Morpurgo's famous book, War Horse.
The charity has helped over 105,000 children since 1976.

Boy Finds Voice with Horse, Inspires Classic Tale

A boy's silence was broken on a rainy November night on Michael and Clare Morpurgo's Devon farm, as he spoke to a horse named Hebe. This profound moment, where an elective mute child found his voice, became the inspiration for Michael Morpurgo's renowned novel, "War Horse."

Founded in 1976 at Nethercott House, Farms for City Children has since expanded to three locations in Devon, Gloucestershire, and Pembrokeshire. The charity has welcomed over 105,000 children, offering them a week of immersive farming experiences, from feeding animals to growing food.

Clare Morpurgo explained that their teaching backgrounds highlighted the limitations of classroom education, prompting their endeavor. The charity's mission focuses on improving children's wellbeing and environmental awareness, particularly for those facing inequality, by connecting them with food, farming, and nature. This connection builds confidence and demonstrates the value of their work.