Book Description

In the tradition of Horse, Follow Closely comes the fascinating book Of Women and Horses. Author and horse trainer GaWaNi Pony Boy gathers an impressive array of known and unknown horsewomen, who in touching prose describe the unique relationships they have with their horses. Women from all walks of life delve into their hearts to give us a taste of the special love, admiration, respect, and fun they have had with various horses. Illustrated with beautiful full-color photographs by Gabrielle Boiselle and other artwork from various artists, Of Women and Horses gives us a glimpse of a most rewarding and historical bond between human and animal. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

A thoroughly engaging compendium of essays by horsewoman
"Of Women & Horses" is a thoroughly engaging compendium of essays by several horsewomen, augmented by the commentary of GaWaNi Pony Boy, the photography of Gabrielle Boiselle, and illustrations by diverse artists. The unifying themes are the relationships, insights, experience, and fascination of women with respect to the horse. From Heather E. Greaves's "A Woman's Metamorphosis with Horses" to Lisa Kiser's "The Horse in the Woman's Role" to Martha Josey's "My Love for Horses," these 22 informative, inspiring essays are very highly recommended reading for students of human/animal relationships, the psychological influence and impact of horses upon the human psyche, women's studies, and equine studies reading lists.

Touching, intimate portraits of horses and their women...
I've been riding on and off all my life since my grandfather put me on a horse at the tender age of three. This book explores the relationships we, as women, have with our beasties, and does so beautifully. Through the words of 22 women from all walks of life: cowgirls to princesses; barrel racers to show jumpers; we see the intricate, emotional, complex relationship that women have with their horses.

The book has an essay on horses by each of the women featured, and is illustrated with beautiful photographs, expressive watercolors, textural oils, and graceful line drawings. It's a book to be savored, read in the evening when you won't be distracted, sipped gently like a fine wine, not gulped. It's a book to come back to again and again, to re-read the essays, to empathize with the writers, and to ponder anew the comments that GaWaNi makes after each piece. It's a book which captures, in physical form, the ephemeral relationship we have with our 'mulies. It's rather surprising that a man could do so, but given this man's expertise with horses, I suppose not so much so.

If you're looking for a gorgeous book to celebrate the special bond between horses and women, this is the one to buy.

A Wonderful Book With Amazing Pictures and Essays
This book, in my opinion, was incredible. It displays the beauty of horses and their relationships with women. I highly recommend this book for all horse enthusiasts and non-horse enthusiasts. The photographs are amazing and overall they are beautiful. Read this wonderful piece of literature, I don't think you will regret it.

A great gift for any Woman!
It seems that all of us (women) at one time or another had a fascination with the horse. This book is beautiful, and wonderful on my coffee table. The words are beautiful and heartwarming, moving and intriguing. A must have for the horse owner, or for any woman who once fell in love with the horse!

Excellent Coffee Table Book
This is a very appealing coffee table book. The stories are very good but I wish these kind of books would acknowledge the ties men have with their pets as well. Women are not more "attuned" to nature as so many pc authors would lead us to think. ... Read more

Book Description

From a renowned horsewoman and gifted storyteller comes this groundbreaking new book that explores a powerful relationship like no other: the magical kinship between women and horses.

Drawing from myth and literature, the author’s own experiences, and interviews with countless women, we learn, through women’s deeply personal stories, how horses enrich our lives and connect us to nature–making us readers of rhythm and invisible signs, helping us harness our youthful sexuality, sharing the “horsepower” we need to reach our dreams. And here we see how, for thousands of years, the deep kinship between women and horses has connected us to our most intimate feelings of delight, helped us learn to solve problems, and set our creativity free.

From the poetry of Geoffrey Chaucer to the fiction of Jane Austen to folktales from around the world, She Flies Without Wings uses great literature and myth to encompass a wide spectrum of beliefs and perspectives–and creates a true celebration of speed, air, and the spectacular animal that connects us with both.

Filled with the moving lessons–-about sensuality, commitment, power, nurturance, and spirituality–women riders have known for centuries, written with a loving hand by an expert equestrian, She Flies Without Wings is an eloquent paean to a pairing that enlivened history, inspired literature, and continues to enchant us all. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

She Doesn't fly
I am not a "horse person" and only read this book because it was selected by my book club. I found it of little interest and was unable to make any connection with the author and her intimate relationship with horses. The style of inserting excerpts from literature, poetry etc in the middle of the text was distracting and made the text disjointed. Perhaps if one is a horse "nut" it would be of some interest but personally I couldn't relate and found all this emotional and spiritual attachment to horses quite annoying.

A Blessing of a Book!
With uncanny insight and wisdom Ms.Midkiff has put eloquently into words the very emotions I have experienced my past 25 years with horses. This book has touched me and made me even more aware of the gifts I receive on a daily basis. As she so simply and profoundly states in this book - "When I ride [my mare] her unity with the outside world is so absolute that I have no choice but to follow her into it. I must stop thinking about deadlines and the grocery list... because they have no place the the world my equine guide is showing me. I can't help but open my eyes to what she sees and my ears to what she hears. I note the flicker of a cottontail disappearing into the brush ahead and hear the call of the meadowlark before spotting it. I swim in her quiet." Bravo, Ms. Midkiff! Though we have never met I am certain we are of the same herd. Thank you for such an inspiring read!

a wonderful read
This was a truly delightful read. I have also read Midkiff's Fitness Performance and the Female Equestrian (also a good book to read), but this book really explores the connection between women and horses. It is obvious that she really loves horses. A good book to curl up with.

Simply Wonderful
This was the most wonderful book I've read I do believe. It is obvious the author's love and understanding of horses. I felt like I should know this lady because I too grew up in the area she did so I could relate to everything she said about the people, as well as about horses and their personalities. I'd recommend anyone who truly loves horses to read this book.

An Epiphany
This lyric, profound, spiritual book makes the heart of all horsepeople, female or male, truly fly without wings. You and your horse may gallop through the canyons of Wyoming or the parks of Manhattan, Midkiff's prose will enhance your journey. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (12)

View life from the horse's eyes
I was very fortunate to go to a clinic put on by Buck Brannaman and it was amazing. I read "The Horse Whisperer" which is based on Buck's training methods and when I saw on TV that he wrote another book I bought it immediately. I never knew the hardships that Buck faced when he was growing up. With animals and humans, Buck shows us that we don't need brutal force to get what we want. I really hope he comes back to my area for another clinic.

Learned a lot.
I feel like I understand horses more now. What I got out of this book is:
A horse that is considered bad because of something a human did to them gets the bad rap...They are treated like they are at fault and then they get pushed asside or abused all because of humans. If there is someone who comes along and can get the horse over their fear--usually caused by a human error. These are true horseman and woman. Buck Brannaman is just that. He has helped many horses become good horses and therefore have a better life. What could be more important?

Should Be Required Reading
What a great book, I couldn't put it down. Potential buyers should note that this is mostly Buck's life story...with some horse lessons in the mix. If you're looking to learn Buck's techniques I suggest one of his other books or videos. But if you want to know the man, understand his background and philosophy toward animals and life--then this is the book. There are some very touching stories. Some will make you happy, some will make you cry. This book should be required reading for anyone who owns a horse or is even thinking about it! I can't wait for his next book.

A great book from great horseman.
Buck is such a great teacher and in his book he shares his life's lessons. You'll laugh and you'll cry, you may even want to go see one of his clinics. What Buck teaches us about the horse is more than just horsemanship....it's life. I hope everyone who enjoys horses and life reads this book. I was sorry when I got to the last page...I didn't want it end. It was that good. ENJOY!

An amazing & real illustration of life and horsemanship.
The story of Buck Brannaman's life is truly phenomenal. From surviving childhood abuse to becoming one of the foremost experts on natural horsemanship, this is a compelling story of survival and lessons learned. His simple lesson of working with the horse by offering him/her a "better option" is really common sense, and he offers examples from his own experiences to illustrate his knowledge. While this is not a book full of techniques and advice from Buck, it is an excellent read for how he came to be where he is today. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (1)

Excellant method - if you have help!
I bought this book before the birth of my first foal. I thought I had a very good understanding of everything contained in the book. But be forewarned. This is not a something that someone can do alone. You need at least one other experienced horse person to help you. This is an absolute necessity! ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

There are approximately seven million horses in America. Each year, over seventy thousand are abused, abandoned, and fated to slaughter by callous and irresponsible owners. With a heart as big as a pasture, author Melanie Bowles takes some of these horses into her sanctuary called Proud Spirit. Here, horses that arrive listless and broken find a home where they finally know safety.

The bond between horse and caretaker does not happen overnight. It hangs by a fine thread of trust that the author earns with endless patience and a full commitment to the well-being of the horses in her care. The horses, some of which have suffered severe abuse, astound her time and again with their ability to trust, return the love they are given, and enjoy the companionship of other horses.

You will meet a whole stableful of remarkable horses:

Dusty, a Thoroughbred who recovered from severe injuries to reveal a rambunctious personality and a knack for stealing hats;

Maddy, an old mare, and Dancer, a gallant Appaloosa, both of whom had been isolated for years but whose ecstatic first acquaintance at Proud Spirit was, mysteriously, like the reunion of two soul mates;

Annie, a little sorrel mare who will break your heart with her weary kindness and who found peace and compassion, at last, under an old oak tree in a pasture at Proud Spirit;

Wrangler, a Miniature whose premature separation from his dam turned him into a tiny tormentor. His rowdy innocence helped Marshal, a huge Palomino gelding with neurological trauma, become playful and engaged as he educated Wrangler in horsy manners.Horses of Proud Spirit is an homage to the spirit of these alluring creatures and a moving memoir of lessons learned in compassion, strength, and loss. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

The Horses of Proud Spirit
Wonderful book! For anyone who loves animals - horses in this case. You will find here an author who is an articulate writer and true heroine. I laughed; I cried, and I hope for a sequel.
Melanie Sue Bowles speaks to our hearts and for the loving treatment of horses.

A beautiful experience
The Horses of Proud Spirit is a beautifully written book. The pages are full of love and pain, but throughout, Melanie's love for her horses shines through. I can't remember EVER reading a book where I cried so much! I recommend this book to anyone who loves horses and the true spirit that resides inside them. The cruelty of humans toward animals is a fact of life, but Melanie shows through her words that love and patience can heal the pain left by human hands.

A Writer of Proud Spirit
This book is definitely NOT just for horse lovers. It's for anyone who appreciates life, and is saddened by abuse of any of God's Creatures. Melanie Bowles has done a masterful job of putting in just the right amount of description, not too wordy (verbose), not too sparse. I was extremely touched by her recounting her father's passing, as I was the only one with my father when he passed. This book will tug at your heart strings and touch you deeply. Some of her tales are sweet, some are funny, and a few are painfully sad. I feel a bond with this remarkable writer, simply from reading her book. Hope she writes a sequel!

Outstanding
As Melanie's husband, I just want to say this is one of the best books I have ever read. I am an avid reader and this is not my particular choice of genre. Having lived every chapter in the book, and knowing each story, I was still unable to put the book down. The book brought back a flood of memories with every chapter I read. It shows the love and dedication Melanie has to these magnificent animals, and the trust that they put in her. A must read for any animal lover. Thanks for writing this.

Inspiring, moving, touching
I took The Horses of Proud Spirit with me to read on the plane and during the evenings during my recent business trip. When I mentioned to my wife (she had already read the book) that I would start reading the book while waiting for my flight and while on the plane, she said "I don't think that reading the book in public places is a good idea because you will get emotional reading about the horses and I don't think you want strangers seeing you cry." Well I did not listen to her advice. While at the airport terminal, I started reading the book and it just totally absorbed me. It was when we were called to go through security, that I realized that I had tears flowing down my cheeks (yes, grown men do cry). I tried to stop the tears, a mixture of sadness (caused by the abuse suffered by these horses), anger (caused by the harm and abuse some humans brought upon the horses), and joy (the horses regaining their spirit) but they continued to flow for about another five minutes. After that experience, I read the book in the privacy of my hotel room. It is a moving and heart warming book that touches all of our human emotions! It is a testament to the sprit of horses and to the kindness, passion, and strength of one woman! ... Read more

Book Description

This story exposes the awful truth behind the multi-billion dollar Tennessee Walking Horse industry. Through the lives of two innocent horses we discover the painful fate of many. We follow the development of their breed from its beginning to the present. Equine nobility, innocence, and truth, grapple with human cruelty, greed, and duplicity.

Spirit horses from the past haunt the dreams of the young stallion at the center of the story and, along with his older and wiser stablemate, help him come to grips with what he is going through and what he must do. It is an epic battle that continues after the final pages are turned, entrusting the reader with the knowledge of blatant atrocities, which cannot be ignored. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Finally the Truth!
I showed pleasure Tennessee Walking horses for years and a padded horse on one occasion. I saw most all of the things mentioned in this book done to these wonderful horses, with perhaps one exception. Although I never sored any of my own personal horses, due to the fact I love them too much and a blue ribbon isn't that important to me, I was shown how to do it and encouraged to do it and did show horses which were sore (although I was not their owner but was riding them for their owner). I cared to much about my animals to sore them and was very interested in reading this book when I found out about it. It is pretty painful to read but it is very honest in describing what does happen to these wonderful horses. Unfortunately today the plantation pleasure horses are going through as much as the padded horses, only minus the pads. If only they could talk and Mr. Davis has done a really nice job giving them their due. I hope this book will enlighten many, but at the same time will not turn anyone away from this breed because it is a wonderful breed to own, ride and show; and all these things can be done successfully without abusing the horses. Funny how the characters in this book really remind me of some of the exact big time walking horse trainers and showmen I know of.

What thousands of walking horses would say . . .
I have owned Tennessee walking horses for years, but I never understood exactly what they went through in the industry's notion of "show training." Now I do. I felt like I came to know the young horse. I read the book in one sitting and then passed it on to another horse owner. It is hard to put down, and even harder to get over the anger it engenders. But it is not all hard reading. It captures the feelings of the show barn and the trainers and owners. Others have told me that this book speaks the truth.

The Brutal Truth About A Million $$$ Industry
Finally, a book that is sensitive and sympathetic to the horse abuse that goes on behind closed-doors everyday in horse barns all over the country, but especially the south. The Tennessee Walking Horse has generated millions of dollars for the economy, and is 'hushed' by powerful lobbyists that contribute to higher political powers. The Tennessee Walking Horse has never had a 'voice', until now. This book exposes the dirty secrets of the trainers and stables through the voice of the horse, as told by the horse. Its about time! An animal lover's book at its finest!

Reveals the Awful Sad truth
Although this well written book is fiction, it is based upon the SAD facts that many horses in the Tennessee Walking Horse show industry must endure. Very educational for those that are not aware of the abuse these poor horses suffer. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Best Horse Advice Book I have EVER read!
I have been suscribed to Jessica's HorseSense online newsletter for some time, and as soon as I found out she was putting a book together I knew I had to have it. I recommend it to ANYONE who wants to know more about horse behavior. Jessica explains everything in an easy to read and easy to understand manner. She addresses almost every problem that horse owners and horse riders have and the advice is just plain great. I would love some day to be able to meet her to share my admiration of her knowledge.

Hores Behavior Problem Solver
This book is a must have for everyone who strives to be a better horsewoman/man. Jessica's perspective challenges us to look at things from the horse's prospective, to ask ourselves if we are communicating the right questions for the answers we get from our horses. Her advice is invaluable to me as I train my two 4 year olds. I refer to this book weekly and have read it cover to cover many times over. It seems that each time I read the questions and answers, I pick up something I missed the time before. Or maybe, the second or third reading, I am ready to Hear that part of the answer! More, Jessica! Keep writing!! ... Read more

Book Description

Teachers and lessons come when we least expect them and often in ways we may not imagine. With reflections on how the horse experience migrates into the way we think of ourselves and of others, and translates into everyday life, this book captures the essence of putting into practice the profound realizations that come from being with a horse. As a powerful connection to the natural world, the horse enables us to grasp the fundamentals of life, which we may not otherwise have had the opportunity to understand. On subjects such as trust, rhythm, empowerment, awareness, forgiveness, and patience, thoughts are combined with wonderful photography and related quotes. Whether you are an experienced rider or horse owner, or have only imagined a horse in your life, you will be convinced that this compelling messenger is calling and that the invitation is life changing. Packaged with the book is a DVD, also by Mark Barret, that features horses in numerous locations and situations, making this book a complete package for showcasing horses in all their glory. ... Read more

Book Description

In this superb expanded and updated volume, equestrian expert Elwyn Hartley Edwards traces the evolution of the horse, covering every major breed of horse and pony as well as the contribution the horse has made to civilization -- in the wild, at work, at war, and in sport and recreation. Chronicling the history of the horse, The New Encyclopedia of the Horse encompasses the early domestication of the horse. This expanded edition features new information on Western riding as well as classical riding styles, and current international sporting events. There are also completely new chapters on horse management, training, and equipment. Visual Breed Guide: There are more than 150 of the world's major breeds of horse and pony photographed in specially commissioned full-figure portraits as well as hundreds of action shots. The origin, history, and uses of each breed are explained, and each breed is brought to life by historical anecdotes and fascinating, little-known facts. Outstanding specimens of familiar as well as obscure breeds are featured, including Dutch Warmbloods and Camargues, Icelandic and Timor Ponies, Morgans and Shetlands, Andalucian and Lusitano, and the Cutting Horse. Brand New Chapters: The new sections on horse management, training, and equipment explain the basics of the proper care of the horse. Information is also included on farriers, feeding, grooming, horse behavior, training techniques, and which equipment to use, including saddles, bridles, and bits. Truly encyclopedic in scope, this is the essential reference for every horse lover. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Very Well Done
This is a fabulous work. The book is large every page is like 2 pages of a regular size book. Great photos on all of the major breeds. The history section in the front is very informative. I read it cover to cover over time and this is the book I refer to when I want to show a breed to a friend.

Every horse lover should own this book!
This is a very beautiful book with lovely photos of horses. You can learn soo much from this book and about all different types of horses. This book also tells about horse sports and how they started to give you more of an understanding. Great for horse lovers.

An incredible artist's reference!
As an illustrator, I have to say that if you're looking for a good photo reference for horses this is perhaps the BEST guide you could ever ask for. The breed section alone is well worth the investment, and the photographs provided are just exquisite.
Once again DK publishing has come through with a gorgeous guide book, and I for one am tremendously grateful they did.

Helped me find a horse
I bought this book because I was a beginner ready to buy a second horse and try a new breed. I picked out a fox trotter based on the smooth ride, and went and bought one, so the book worked well for me.

Each breed has a 2 page write-up devoted to it, with a large picture and a couple small ones, plus a map of origin. Almost every picture is color. Interspersed throughout the book are many short articles on a myriad of subjects, with 2 or more color pictures on every page of the book. 450 pages, 9 3/4" x 11 1/2". ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Excellent Book for the New Breeder
I love this book. Miller's indepth descriptions of the initial bonding, desensitization and sensitization of newborn foals is incredible. He describes in great detail how to teach a foal that humans are "the boss," how to desensitize a foal to stimuli that it will experience all its life (i.e., the farrier, the vet, etc.), and how to teach a foal early on to react to other stimuli positively thus learning to lead, back up, move laterally, and even load into a trailer before it is 2 weeks old. I have used these techniques for the past several years with great results and will be using it again this year. The foals are easy to handle, stand well for the farrier, and even accept the bit and saddle without incident once they are three. Bottom line: this technique creates horses that trust humans rather than fear them.

Greatest Imprinting Book I have read!
I have a TWH mare that is very precious to me. This was her first and my first foal. I read and reread and reread this book by Dr. Miller. I must admit I was so nervous, I had never imprinted before. I slept in my barn for three nights before the delivery. I was already exhausted. But when the time came, everything I had read fell true. Each reaction was exactly as the book described. This colt is so easy to manage and my husband and I are enjoying this little fellow more than I can tell you. Please, if you are considering breeding, buy this book!

DON'T BUY THIS BOOK
The name of the book suggests Robert Miller's distinct lack in the understanding of behaviour. True imprint training would involve the foal looking upon the human, which is carrying out the technique, as its mother.

Miller writes that his technique is based on the foal being submissive to the human, by nature horses will challenge a dominant figure in order to progress up the pecking order- this could be very dangerous when the foal has grown if it starts to attack humans. Miller also recommends that the first part of the technique being carried out in the first 45 minutes of the foals life, before it has even stood up, which involves repeatedly (50 times is recommended) sticking fingers in the foals ears, nose, anus and rubbing hands and clippers all over the body. Within this time the foal should be finding its feet and the mares teats for its first feed of colostrum in order to give it immune protection.

The video shows Miller entering the stable of a mare and her 12-day-old foal. The foal had been pushy for the past five days and Millers way of rectifying this was to kick the foal until it stopped reacting to the kicking. Are we really to assume that the foal will connect this beating administered while he was quite in the stable with his mum, with his bad behaviour in the past few days? I find this unlikely and am more inclined to think that the foal will associate humans coming in his stable with pain. Is this something we really want to achieve with our foals? Miller's explanation for this punishment is that, in the wild, stallions will kick pushy foals to put them in their place. This again demonstrates Miller's lack of understanding of equine behaviour as the mare is the one who puts the foal in its place and always immediately after the undesired behaviour has occurred, the stallion has little to do with the foals.

Regular handling of foals and gradually introducing them to different stimuli is important in the creating of a well-rounded individual BUT consider the relationship you want to you want to create with your youngster and whether its to be based on a potentially dangerous dominant-submissive foundation or one of trust. Please think long and hard before further lining the pockets of this man who in my opinion is promoting animal abuse.

IT WORKS!!!
I bought this book when my mare was five months preg. I read hundreds of times. When my foal came I did exactly what was in it, and my foal loads, ties, is good for the farrier, leads, ponies, EVERYTHING! One should not be without this book if they want a well-mannered baby.

Very Good Book for first-time foal handlers
I thought this book was very good for the young, or novice foal owner/handler. I found that most of the information I already knew by learning the hard way i.e. trial and error. I have seen many intolerant/uneducated people handle foals rough so they should have read this book first before the foal was ever born. If they had they would be having a much more loving and harmoneous relationship with their foals, and also their grown horses. ... Read more

Book Description

Drawing on centuries of European practice, The Elements of Dressage will help any reader perfect the union between horse and rider. Dressage has been around since the time of the ancient Greeks, but reached its heights in Europe, and particularly in Germany. The German approach is now the preferred method in most countries, and the author has been teaching it for more than fifty years. There are ten principal elements in the German method, and they include: relaxation, regularity, freedom, contact, straightness, and Durchlassigkeit. Both beginning and advanced trainers and riders will learn why the ten elements exist, how to develop them in a horse, and even when not to use them. Starting with the basics, and moving on towards the most subtle aspects, The Elements of Dressage is the complete guide to the art of training and riding a horse. (7 x 9 3/4, 128 pages, diagrams)

Kurd Albrecht von Ziegner has operated an internationally renowned riding school in Mechtersen, Germany, south of Hamburg, since 1971. Trained as an officer in the cavalry school in Hannover, he became a leading NATO officer in the 1950s and took over, among other things, the construction of the Turkish cavalry school in Ankara. He is also one of the most prominent and successful dressage trainers in the United States, where he developed a new judging system, the Prix St. James. Winner of the German Rider Cross in Gold, the author shares insights from more than fifty years of training. He is also the author of many articles and books, including The Basics: A Guideline for Successful Training. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A delight and enlightening for any dressagerider
This is without a doubt the best dressagebook I have ever read. It is very well written pedagic and the total design of the book is fantastic. This book is not as pricy as a lot of others containing lots of beautiful photo, but it will give you so much more. Everything comes clear, my trainer was a bit surprised to see my ridning change so drastic after reading this book. I have a lot of dressage books but none makes sense as this one. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Scholarly Classic
This extensive treatment of the science of movement of horses is destined to serve as an important reference work for decades to come. Essential for the serious scholar of horse gaits and performance. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (3)

Great Horse Stories
I read this book many years ago and am glad to see it reissued. Even my non horsey kids enjoyed the stories. It's even worth rereading.

Green Not Hokey
Whoever said that Green's stories were hokey must be young, and not appreciative of bootstrap operations. Ben Green was a self-made man, sizing up opportunities as an enterprising youngster. He shows determination, he demonstrates decision-making skills, and he always plays within the framework, ever flavored with a fine-tuned sense of humor. In short, he's the sort who made this country great, and what we are woefully short of in today's crop of youngsters. I know; I'm a retired middle school teacher. I'd recommend this book to any of my former students, except most of them don't like to read.

Strange Short Stories
This is a book of odd little tales written with a western "flair". The line drawings are nice but the stories were occasionally a bit hokey for my taste. Good for those who like old westerns and beans from a can on the grill. ... Read more

Book Description

Since the 1947 publication of Marguerite Henry's Misty of Chincoteague, millions of visitors have some to a barrier island between Maryland and Virginia in search of wild horses. Featuring more than 150 full-color photographs, Wild Horses of the Dunes tells the visual story of these wild horses. Since 1924, the horses have been rounded up each July to swim across Chincoteague Bay from Assateague Island to the small town of Chincoteague. This is a book for horse lovers, and for anyone captivated by the beauty of the Eastern Shore and the long-standing traditions of a special place. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Amazing!
This book was extremely well done. Along with its amazing photography, it contained factual information helping to describe the lives of the Chincoteague ponies. It is a must read for all horse lovers of all ages.

Wild Horses of the Dunes
Magnificent photographs with informative text. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A must read for students of riding and students of life
Ingrid Sorens' touching recount of her first years of riding is intelligent and insightful. I think it is fabulous that someone riding for such a relativley short period of time was able to come to the realization of allowing the horse to just be and not get in their way, the path to truly harmonious riding.
To read her descriptions is to be there. She is a vibrant writer who brings you into her space with masterful skill. You do not have to be searching for a book on riding(although all riders should read it) to find this one intriguing. It is a fabulous journey about living life, overcoming fears and an intimate exploraton of Zen philosophy. It has helped me refocus in my life. THANK YOU.
Horses or no, I will be looking forward greatly to her next release. Can't wait.

Calming and wonderful
The cover photo and the title is what caught my eye. And we are a horse loving, horse riding family going back generations. And the book is small. A tad bigger than 5X7 but it is so full of wisdom. And until I read it I never had thought of the Zen aspect of horses. Their stillness and power and the way they just "are".

The way she speaks of Ducie and the other horses she rode, the reader feels like they are there almost as an eavesdropper or horse voyeur. In chapter four A Portion Of Genius I could almost smell the stables when she writes "several girls were mucking out the stables when I arrived. Piles of dirty straw littered the cobbles, and two horses were drinking from a stone trough at one end." And when she speaks of Johnny as being camp and how he was slight, dainty and balding in a lavender shirt and salmon pink carvat I had to chuckle thinking of a man this reminds me of.

Chapter Twelve Surrender and Trust was enchanting. The way she writes of Jade the horse and practicing her dressage and how animals (page 99) have much to teach us about acceptance and how riding is really a Zen like state of mind. Where you become one with the animal and the rest of the world seems to fade away.

How horse therapy with children as well as adults helps bridge the gap of fear into a world where this large animal that so many see as a power force can become the trusted friend that rather than hurt will instead with its rocking motion as you ride, will soothe and calm and take the fear away.

I am not going to tell anymore about the book because it is so special and I simply want you to read it and treasure it and be better for it. ... Read more

Book Description

From wide-eyed little girls to experienced Thoroughbred owners, few people are immune to horse fever. 1,001 Reasons to Love(tm) Horses, the most recent addition to STC's successful series, revels in the wide variety of equestrian activities and celebrates the timeless bond between humans and horses.

With more than 300 compelling photographs that capture equine beauty and majesty, accompanied by lists, quotations, excerpts, and bits of nostalgia, this all-inclusive compendium explores horses in their myriad manifestations: the rough-and-tumble style of the Western horse and the elegant refinement of the Eastern show ring; horses in the wild and horses in the safety of stable and paddock; horses at rest and horses in motion; mythical creatures and workaday partners; friend of the farmer and companion to the aristocrat. 1,001 Reasons to Love(tm) Horses will be cherished by anyone who rides or attends the races, remembers reading National Velvet or Misty of Chincoteague, was enthralled by Seabiscuit and The Horse Whisperer, or simply is captivated by these lovely creatures. AUTHOR BIO: Sheri Seggerman's passion for horses began when she started riding at the age of eight. Today she is a photographer and writer in Iowa City, Iowa. Her horse is a Percheron cross named Lucy. This is Seggerman's first book. Mary Tiegreen is a designer and writer who has long explored the art of books and bookmaking. She is the creative director of STC's 1,001 Reasons to Love(tm)... series and is the author, with Jana Kolpen, of The Secrets of Pistoulet and Dancing with the Moon (both STC). ... Read more

Book Description

The author of the phenomenally successful Catwatching, Dogwatching, and Catlore turns his attention to horses, answering more than 40 intriguing questions about the nature of the horse, and discussing the myths and history of horses through the ages. Desmond Morris delights animal lovers once again in this book of facts and lore. 25 black-and-white drawings. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

HorseWatching- For The Inexperienced Horse Person
In "Horse Watching" Desmond Morris explains in adequate detail some of the lesser thought aspects when it comes to horses. Such questions as "Why does a horse whinny?" are answered in this injustly named book. When you read the front cover, the critics and publishers give Morris far too much credit for a book suitable for 8-12 year olds. Yes, this book is fantastic for the new equestrian, but no, for the older and/or more experienced person, this book wouldn't be of much help.

Because of the fact Desmond Morris has written so many books about various animals, it indicates that he most likely has no or limited experience with horses, and textbooks and research filled the pages, not actual experience and raw knowledge.
Thanks for reading my review!

Yours Truly,
Anna
The Equestrian Critique :)

Novicewatching
Mr. Desmond's book displays near complete inexperience with hroses. I wonder if he's even ridden a horse before. Furthermore, I thought the book was actually geared more towards children rather than adults. He has interesting facts here and there, but that's all I can say about it!

Very Elabourate
I don't think this book could have been written any better. As a fellow horse lover I have actually found myself communicaing with my horse a lot more. I think that Morris did an excellent job with this book, and I would highly recommend it to anyone loking for more information on horses.

This book is OK
This book has an interesting look at a horses behavior, but i felt that it lacked depth and a true understanding of what a horse is really like. Morris attempted explanations on why horses whinny, shake their head, and what their body language means, but it is more of a textbook answer than real experiences. I have been around horses my whole life, and some of these things Morris says are true some of the time. It is a good supplement to why a horse behaves the way he does, as long as you can add in your own interpretations.

A wonderful book of info. and pictures of horses.
This is a book that has the answers to all of your questions about horses and a whole lot more. It has 25 black and white drawings and discusses the nature and history of the horse. This book is for horsewatchers everywhere. You don't need to have spent years in the saddle to enjoy this book. Morris focuses on the horses strength, speed, nobility, and extreme grace and beauty. ... Read more