Shadow of a Bull

Shadow of a Bull

Shadow of a Bull

Author	Maia Wojciechowska
Country	United States
Language	English
Genre	Children's literature
Publisher	Atheneum Books
Publication date	1964
Media type	Print (hardcover and paperback)
Pages	165
ISBN	978-0-689-30060-0

Shadow of a Bull is a children's book written by Maia Wojciechowska. It was first published in 1964 by Atheneum Books. The novel won the Newbery Medal in 1965, which is awarded annually by the American Library Association for the most distinguished American children's book published the previous year.

Plot summary

The story is set in the small town of Arcangel, Spain, and follows the life of Manolo Olivar, a young boy who is expected to follow in the footsteps of his father, Juan Olivar, a legendary bullfighter. Manolo faces immense pressure from the townspeople and his own family to become a bullfighter, despite his own fears and lack of desire to enter the bullring. Throughout the novel, Manolo grapples with his identity and the expectations placed upon him, ultimately seeking to find his own path.

Characters

• Manolo Olivar - The protagonist, a young boy expected to become a bullfighter like his father.
• Juan Olivar - Manolo's deceased father, a famous bullfighter whose legacy looms over Manolo.
• Dr. Olivar - Manolo's uncle and a supportive figure who understands Manolo's fears.
• Count De La Casa - A wealthy patron who supports Manolo's training as a bullfighter.
• Juan Garcia - Manolo's friend who also dreams of becoming a bullfighter.

Themes

The novel explores themes such as courage, identity, and the struggle between personal desires and societal expectations. It delves into the concept of heroism and what it means to be true to oneself in the face of external pressures.

Awards

• Newbery Medal (1965)

Reception

Shadow of a Bull has been praised for its rich storytelling, complex characters, and its exploration of deep themes suitable for young readers. The book is considered a classic in children's literature and continues to be studied in schools and enjoyed by readers of all ages.

See also

• Newbery Medal
• Children's literature
• Bullfighting