Seabiscuit--Laura HillenbrandSummary-- No one saw any promise in him. He was gawky, had ugly knees and spent most of his time sleeping. He was not made of racehorse material despite his Man O' War pedigree. Then Tom Smith found him and Seabiscuit's life changed. First, he burned up the track...but only when he wanted to. Then, with patient care from his trainer, Tom, and jockey, Red Pollard, one of America's greatest racehorses began running in earnest. Beating better and better horses Seabiscuit eventually warms up to the "race of the century" between himself and his uncle War Admiral. Pollard, who had been badly injured is not able to ride so his good friend and fellow jockey, George Woolfe takes the reigns (spoiler warning!) and to the astonishment of many, wins. Then, Seabiscuit's racing career was smashed--he broke his leg. Pollard and Seabiscuit remove to Charles Howard's, the horses owner, ranch to recover together. Over a year later horse and jockey shook the racing world. They are back on the course and make Howard's final goal, the Santa Anita Handicap. Seven year old Sebicuit, who was told he would never race again, and Red Pollard who was told he would never ride again make a smashing win. The horse's course is run.
Con's-- As with any Laura Hillenbrand book, there is a lot of language and plentiful off-color comments. I have to give her credit though--she only write the language if she is quoting.
Pro's-- I love horses, yes, but that is not the sole reason for me loving this book. It was masterfully written to capture an amazing story. I loved the history, seeing the background of those who were instrumental in Seabiscuit's life, and feeling the serge of joy as the old horse made track records. Seabiscuit is a perfect rags-to-riches story for those out there who think they have no talent. Everyone has a wonderful talent it just might be deeply hidden and take some coaxing to convince it to come out!
Ages 17 and up. Five stars.
No comments:
Post a Comment