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About

In 1914 Jim and Charlie abandon the Australian outback for the excitement and adventure of the war to end all wars. But in the Light Horse they quickly discover the brutal realities of life on the front line. And nothing will ever be the same again.

Featuring stunning charcoal sketches by Brian Simmonds alongside primary source documents and historical photos, Light Horse Boy goes behind the scenes of the great ANZAC legends for an intimate look at their experience of World War I.

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Awards

• Honour Book, 2014 CBCA Book of the Year (younger readers)
• Winner, 2014 WA Premier’s Book Awards

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Other book in the series

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Book trailer

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Reviews

‘This is a fine book that will add much to our understanding of the Australian spirit as it engages in war. Should be compulsory reading for all upper grade students.’ – Reading Time

‘… an engaging narrative nonfiction text for primary-aged children.’ – Junior Bookseller+Publisher

‘Wolfer’s latest foray into historical fiction is a successful one.’ – Magpies

‘This is a powerful and moving book, highly recommended for ages 9 to 14 years.’ – Child Magazine

‘Beautifully written and meticulously researched.‘ – Kids’ Book Review

‘… a fabulous picture book for older readers, just in time for ANZAC day.’ – Scoop Magazine

‘The book is full of photographs, letters, telegrams and illustrations, which make this an engaging narrative non fiction text for primary-aged children’ – Bookseller+Publisher

‘… the story of the Light Horse soldiers is a fascinating one.’ – Children’s War Books

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Teachers’ Notes

• Download Teachers’ Notes (pdf)
• Download sample chapter (pdf)
• Ways to use Light Horse Boy in the classroom (external link)

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Behind the scenes

In 2011, my husband Pete and I travelled to Gallipoli. The services at Lone Pine and ANZAC Cove were deeply moving and provided valuable research for Light Horse Boy.

Stage adaptation

The Light series has also been adapted for CineStage by Theatre 180. Sandy is represented by a magnificent puppet head, which you can see on this clip. it’s a beautiful adaptation.

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More resources

Read an article about the ‘Light’ series on the Chauvel Foundation website.

Light Horse Boy was selected by Moss Vale High School for their ‘whole school bookclub’ title in 2015. 700 students/staff read the book!

Check out this fun New Zealand knitting link, all about how NZ women would knit clothing for soldiers during World War I (external link).

Here’s an interesting link to a piece on ‘The Project’ which honours War Animals: http://http://tenplay.com.au/channel-ten/the-project/extra/season-5/animal-remembrance?autoStart=true