Books Like...

'Horse: A Novel' by Geraldine Brooks is a captivating historical novel that weaves together two main fictional stories set a hundred years apart, focusing on the intertwined histories of a champion racehorse and his enslaved groom. The narrative skillfully delves into the world of Thoroughbred racing in the 1800s, shedding light on the role of enslaved Blacks in this industry and the subsequent exclusion of Black individuals in racing after the Civil War. Through beautiful writing and emotional storytelling, the author explores themes of slavery, love, loss, and the enduring impact of historical events on modern times.

The novel also incorporates elements of art, provenance, moral development, and science, offering a comprehensive and thought-provoking exploration of race relations, historical injustices, and the interconnectedness of past and present. The depth of research evident in the book enhances the authenticity of the narrative, drawing readers into a richly detailed world spanning centuries and highlighting the enduring significance of untold stories.

The Horse Whisperer by Nicholas Evans tells the gripping and emotional story of a family dealing with a tragic accident involving a young girl, her friend, and their horses. The plot revolves around the aftermath of the accident, focusing on the physical and emotional healing of the surviving girl and her traumatized horse with the help of a horse whisperer. The book also delves into themes of love, loss, healing, and the complexities of relationships, particularly between the characters involved in the healing process.

'The Heavenly Horse from the Outermost West' by Mary Stanton is a fantasy novel that delves into a world where horses are sentient beings with their own pantheon of gods. The story follows Duchess, an Appaloosa horse who has been mistreated by humans, as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and adventure. Along the way, she meets other horses like Dancer, the rainbow horse, and Susie, a painted horse, who help her navigate the dangers of the world. Together, they face the dark horse, a devil-like antagonist, and must confront moral issues such as animal mistreatment and captivity. is described as a classic tale of good versus evil with a well-thought-out mythology and rich characterization, appealing to horse lovers and fans of fantasy alike.

The writing style of 'The Heavenly Horse from the Outermost West' is praised for its imaginative storytelling and intricate world-building. The author, Mary Stanton, creates a captivating narrative that keeps readers engaged with its epic scale and dark themes. is noted for its detailed descriptions of horses, their viewpoints, and the interactions between the characters, making it a compelling read for those interested in animal behavior and fantasy adventures.

'Lord of Misrule' by Jaimy Gordon follows the story of horseman Tommy Hansel as he tries to save his stables with an underhanded scheme involving racing four unknown horses to win big. Set in a small West Virginia racetrack, the novel intricately weaves together the lives of characters like Medicine Ed, Suitcase Smithers, Maggie Koderer, and Joe Dale Bigg, along with horses like Pelter and Lord of Misrule. The writing style is described as dense, evocative, and original, capturing the gritty backstage of the racetrack with a lyrical and hopeful touch.

The Silver Brumby by Elyne Mitchell is a beloved book that captures the hearts of readers with its enchanting tale of wild horses in the Australian mountains. The story follows Thowra, a majestic silver stallion, as he leads a herd of beautiful wild horses, eluding capture and fighting against bad horses to seek out the untamed parts of the land. Through vivid descriptions and thrilling adventures, the book immerses readers in the world of the Brumbies, showcasing the intricate details of a horse's life and the bond between animals in the wilderness.

The book is praised for its anthropomorphic approach, where the animals in the story talk and exhibit human-like qualities, adding a unique and engaging element to the narrative. Readers are transported into a world filled with magical moments, stunning landscapes, and heartwarming interactions between the wild horses, making it a captivating read for both children and adults alike.

In "The Eighty-Dollar Champion: Snowman, the Horse That Inspired a Nation" by Elizabeth Letts, readers are taken on a journey of discovery and triumph as the unlikely bond between Harry and his horse, Snowman, unfolds. The book beautifully captures the heartwarming relationship between the two, showcasing their resilience, determination, and unwavering connection. Through eloquent descriptions and emotive storytelling, Letts brings to life the tale of a man and his horse, united by a shared need for each other and a deep understanding that transcends mere physical training.

National Velvet by Enid Bagnold is a heartwarming tale set in a small English village in the 1920s or 1930s, focusing on the protagonist, Velvet Brown, a teenage girl with a passion for horses. Velvet's dream of owning a horse unexpectedly comes true when she wins a wild piebald horse in a raffle and inherits five ponies from a generous gentleman. Determined to turn the piebald, known as The Pie, into a champion, Velvet sets her sights on entering him in the prestigious Grand National steeplechase, a race typically dominated by men. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including her age and gender, Velvet remains resolute in pursuing her dream, showcasing themes of determination, family support, and the pursuit of one's passion.

Enid Bagnold's writing style in National Velvet is praised for its unique characterizations, vivid setting descriptions, and realistic dialogue that immerses readers in the English countryside and the world of horse racing. The story follows Velvet's journey of self-discovery, highlighting her courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her beloved horse, The Pie. Through a blend of family dynamics, equestrian challenges, and unexpected turns of events, the book offers a timeless and engaging narrative that captivates readers of all ages.

"Secretariat" by William Nack is a detailed account of the legendary racehorse's journey to becoming one of the greatest in history. Through vivid descriptions and engaging narratives, Nack takes the reader through the races of 1973, highlighting Secretariat's remarkable victories and the key players involved in his success. provides insights into the breeding process, the training, and the sheer talent of Secretariat, capturing the essence of horse racing and the awe-inspiring moments on the track.

Nack's writing style immerses the reader in the heart-pounding excitement of the races, shifting perspectives from the jockey's saddle to the spectator's view, creating a thrilling and educational experience. also delves into the personal stories of those connected to Secretariat, offering a deeper understanding of the dedication, passion, and challenges faced by the individuals behind this extraordinary racehorse.

"My Friend Flicka" by Mary O'Hara is a coming-of-age story set on a Wyoming horse ranch. The main character, Ken, is a dreamer who longs for a horse of his own, despite facing challenges with his authoritarian father. The novel vividly portrays ranching life, exploring themes of family dynamics, responsibility, and the bond between a boy and his horse. The story is rich in details about horses, prairie life in Wyoming, and questions about gender roles, providing a thoughtful and loving look at the relationship between Ken and the wild filly, Flicka.

The writing style in "My Friend Flicka" is described as beautifully written, emotionally wrenching, and filled with vivid descriptions of the ranch, animals, and mountains. The author's ability to create lifelike characters, both human and equine, adds depth to the story, making readers feel sad, happy, and worried alongside Ken. The novel is praised for its exploration of love, faith, and the challenges faced by the characters, offering a heartfelt and engaging narrative.

'The Fur Person' by May Sarton is a heartwarming tale told from the perspective of a tomcat named Tom Jones. It follows Tom's journey from being a stray cat to finding a loving home with his human housekeepers, May Sarton and Judy Matlack. The story is filled with delightful observations of cat behavior, humor, and touching moments that showcase the special bond between cats and humans. Written in a charming and engaging style, the book captures the inner life of a cat and the joys of companionship between pets and their owners.