The Chestry Oak

As heartbreaking as it is triumphant, this book lingers with you long after you’ve read it. The story centers around a young Hungarian prince, Michael, during World War II. His loving upbringing, the family’s trials during the war, and his eventual escape and redemption. Filled with many memorable characters with quotes that resonate with wisdom and love.I grew up reading The White Stag by Kate Seredy and always loved it. I have recently read a few of her other titles, namely A Tree for Peter and The Good Master. I was so happy to see that another of her books, The Chestry Oak, was being reprinted. As much as I love all of Seredy’s books, this is my favorite by the author, and among my top five books of all time. I’ve never felt a desire to write a review before, but felt I needed to share my thoughts on this book because of the impact it’s had on me.

When I read this book as a child, nearly a half-century ago, I was drawn by the romance of the life she described in pre-WWII Hungary. It was sold then as a child's book about horses. Re-reading the book since then, I love it even more than I did as a kid. Now what seems so poignant is not just the loss of that pre-war elegance in Hungary, but the mid-40s sanity of American farmers. Here's a window into a different millennium, to put it mildly.

This is a great story for kids and adults. I read it when my 7th grade son was assigned this for school. We both lived it and had good discussions about it!

The is a great story for perhaps 7th or 8th grade level. Great message and nothing questionable or edgy.

This is a beautiful story about a boy whose life was destroyed by WWII, the true story of many faceless and nameless people. His journey is moving and the end makes me tear up every time. This should be required reading in all schools as an historical novel and also to teach children compassion on their suffering brothers. Excellent story. So glad it is back in print. Would recommend it highly. Not just another novel.

You must read this book! I read it to my 12 yo daughter. The first few chapters were hard for me to get through,but we hung in there and it is now one of her favorite books. It's a touching story that will stay with you for years to come. A must read for any homeschool family.

I was thrilled to see this book back in print! My first purchase of The Chestry Oak cost me $35 and that's a bargain for a hardback today. Thankfully, every child can enjoy this amazing book with this high quality paperback reprint, and I have already purchased a copy for each of my kids (and future grandchildren). This is the kind of story that stays with you a lifetime. Simply beautiful.

My mother read this book to me as a child. I have been searching for the hardcover copy that we used to have and was afraid I would not be to read this again so I was thrilled to find on Amazon and plan on reading it to my grandsons. Thank you

A heartrending story of a child growing up in the shadow of WW 2 redeemed by his love of horses. An excellent and evocative book.

A wonderfully written classic!

Enjoyed this.. lovely illustrations..