War Horse characters

Appears from the start

A red-bay farm horse who narrates the story. Bought as a frightened young animal at auction, Joey learns to trust Albert Narracott and responds to patience, voice, and touch more than force. His loyalty to people and other horses carries him through work and danger he cannot fully understand.

Appears from the start

The farmer's son who names, gentles, and trains Joey. Albert treats the horse as a friend, speaking to him constantly and earning his complete trust. Though still young, he assumes responsibility for Joey's care and protects him from his father's temper.

Appears from the start

Albert's father, a struggling Devon farmer who buys Joey impulsively after drinking at an auction. Proud, volatile, and burdened by money worries, he can be harsh with both his son and the horse, although he depends on their work.

Appears from the start

Albert's mother, who manages the Narracott household with patience and practical good sense. She understands her husband's pride and drinking but sympathizes with Albert's devotion to Joey.

First appears in chapter 2

The Narracotts' experienced farm horse. Calm and strong, Zoey helps the younger Joey learn farm work and provides him with reassuring equine companionship.

First appears in chapter 4

The cavalry officer who buys Joey for army service. Captain Nicholls is a skilled, considerate horseman who recognizes Joey's quality and promises Albert that he will care for him. He also sends Albert a drawing of Joey from camp.

First appears in chapter 5

A powerful black cavalry horse ridden by Captain Stewart. Proud and initially aloof, Topthorn becomes Joey's closest equine companion as the two train and serve together.

First appears in chapter 5

A cavalry officer and Topthorn's devoted rider. Captain Stewart is competitive with Captain Nicholls but shares his respect for fine horses and handles Topthorn with affection and skill.

First appears in chapter 7

A British cavalryman assigned to ride Joey after Captain Nicholls. Trooper Warren is nervous and less naturally accomplished on horseback, but he is gentle and comes to rely on Joey's steadiness.

First appears in chapter 8

A German officer who takes charge of Joey and Topthorn after their capture. He respects the horses, protects them from rough treatment, and puts them to work pulling wounded soldiers rather than treating them as trophies.

First appears in chapter 9

A German soldier devoted to his younger brother, Michael. Gunther's concern for Michael is stronger than his obedience to the army, and he uses the captured horses in an attempt to keep the brothers together and away from the fighting.

First appears in chapter 9

Gunther's younger brother, a German soldier selected to continue toward the front. His vulnerability prompts Gunther to take a desperate risk on his behalf.

First appears in chapter 11

A young French girl who lives on a farm with her grandfather. Frail but determined, Emilie becomes deeply attached to Joey and Topthorn when the horses arrive there and treats them as beloved companions.

First appears in chapter 11

Emilie's grandfather, a French farmer raising her after the loss of the rest of their family. Protective and compassionate, he cares for Joey and Topthorn and understands how much hope the horses give Emilie.

First appears in chapter 13

A German artilleryman assigned to drive and care for Joey and Topthorn. Friedrich speaks openly to the horses about his fear and his dislike of war, finding in their company a refuge from the role of soldier.

First appears in chapter 18

Albert's friend and fellow soldier, serving with him in the veterinary corps. David knows how long Albert has searched for Joey and supports his hope that the horse may still be found.