An epic coming of age story set in the harsh beauty of Nova Scotia bursts into life in this acclaimed television series, based on the book. This Canadian series focuses on the McLean/Hall family in Nova Scotia in the early 1900’s and their involvement in the coal industry. Young Willie enters the mines after the death of his father and forms an attachment to the horses who work below ground.
Gentle presentation of people living under difficult physical, social, and economic conditions. Multidimensional and not one sided. Yet a thinking person has much to ponder about human tenacity and adaptation, community, family, and character even in the face of economic exploitation. The characters are compelling and the kids come to life as people. This is a great production. This can be taken simply as a story about kids as people, or a family film, or it can be seen as a film with a message. One can enjoy the scenery and atmospherics. It can be appreciated at many levels. – Amazon review
Starring Alex Wrathell, Denny Doherty, Jennie Raymond, Shaun Smyth, Mary-Colin Chisholm.
Note: There was also a movie made in 1997 listed separately. Viewers suggest the series is suitable for children 8 years and older, who can deal with some harsh themes (death, child labor).