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Post by tintin on Dec 8, 2016 22:41:32 GMT 1
I love nothing better to read than a good fictional horse biography
In his marvellous "Horseman Through Six Reigns" the famous Riding Master, Horace Smith, states, "Happy horses, like people and countries, have no histories"
Well this book proves him wrong. The author has pulled off the wonderful trick of writing a compellingly readable book about a horse for whom everything goes right. This is a great part of the books charm. Not only do people act towards horses like they should, but also towards other people.
When many pony books have a lack of rapport between children and parents, even friction, the Major in this book is a model father. Authoritative, considerate, polite, firm in a low profile way and leading by example. He is an incredible contrast to the fathers in "The Mandrake" or "Blind Beauty". He is a real friend and leader to his son.
The descriptive writing in this book is also first class - you are almost out on the moor with them. A good book for those who cannot ride or have horses themselves. Not a lot really happens, but you are utterly drawn in to their world.
The illustrations are great.
Although a good book the sequel just does not touch this one.
Not many books I would give the top honour to, but unhesitatingly to this one.
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Post by Claire on Dec 13, 2016 21:54:57 GMT 1
I really like this one too, although horse biographies aren't my favourite sub-genre at all. I think it's by far the best of Eleanor Helmne's books. Yes due to nothing tragic happening, unlike most horse biographies, it's a good read if you need a cheer up.
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