This is an interesting book, because it actually takes place during the time when the Pevensies are still in Narnia during The Lion, The Witch, And The Wardrobe.

The theme could be seen as a longing for something greater. Shasta was a journey to Narnia, making him realize he was made for something greater, to save Archenland and Narnia from destruction. For Aravis, it was a journey of a better life than an arranged marriage.

These characters do change throughout. Shasta could be view as "a diamond in the rough"... you think he's a common slave at first, then it turns out he's a Prince of Archenland. Aravis is an upper class Tarkheena, but stands out from most Calormenes (that's what makes her and Emeth from The Last Battle stand out from the other Calormenes, because they both demonstrate humility). Bree learns how to be a wiser horse, and Hwin is sensible.

I have been listening to the book. I was struck by the different backgrounds of the characters and their morals.

I remember that my elementary school teacher read The Horse and His Boy to us when I was in the fifth grade.  That was my first exposure to the book decades ago. Has anyone else had the book read to them before they read it themselves?  I don’t know if today’s school teachers still read books to the their students. The same teacher read The Lion,The Witch, and the Wardrobe and The Silver Chair. She dramatized the story like an actor would. I don’t know if all of today’s teachers would have the gift of storytelling, but if they do they can make the story come alive.  🙂