Cobweb
by Michael Morpurgo
★★★★
Review
Cobweb is a warm, wise and easy-read tale of a dog and his devotion to his owner. I was drawn in straight away by the adorable dog on the front cover and was not disappointed by the sweet tale inside.
Just as Britain's war against France and Napoleon comes to an end, little corgi, Cobweb, finds himself banished from the home he loves so dearly; he isn't welcome on the farm any more and must never return to his beloved Bethan. Without any choice, Cobweb becomes a Drover's dog, leading sheep through the UK to London where they will be sold, alongside Goodlad the sheepdog. Along his travels, Cobweb hears of the horrors of battle and meets many war heroes who share their tales of loss and heartbreak. Determined not to have his heart broken, Cobweb decides that nothing will stop him from seeing his Bethan again, no matter what gets in his way.
This book is short and sweet with lots of lovely illustrations to support the reader. It contains facts and information about the British wars against Napoleon and invites the reader to share some of the heartbreaking realities of war. There isn't much drama at all in the book, making it suitable for readers young and old.
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At a glance
Author: Michael Morpurgo
Cover artist: Michael Foreman
Release Date: 12th September 2024
Book type: Chapter, 240 pages
Reader level: Growing reader, Shared read 7+
Blurb
Britain. 1815. After years of loss and sacrifice, the end of the war with Napoleon is approaching.
Cobweb knows nothing of the war – he loves being a young puppy and playing with his owner, Bethan, exploring the countryside and chasing rabbits.
But when he is taken away from Bethan and sold, Cobweb must learn to become a Drover’s Dog – herding sheep and cattle for hundreds of miles on the long, treacherous journey to London.
And after the Napoleonic wars finally come to an end with the Battle of Waterloo, Cobweb meets an unexpected stranger with an incredible tale to tell on his journey home …
Should I read this book?
You should read this book if you...
enjoy easy-read tales
love stories told by animals
are interested in history
Reader level: Growing
Content: 7+
Help me to read
- Napoleon: Military and political leader of France
- Napoleonic Wars: Series of big battles fought between France, led by Napoleon Bonaparte, and many other countries in Europe from 1803 to 1815.
- Drover: A person who moves animals (cattle, sheep, horses) from one place to another
- Drummer boy: young musicians who used drum signals to give orders, boost morale, and sometimes carried messages,
Learn more about the Napoleonic Wars
Where can I find this book?
Don't forget to check our your local library
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