Book Reviews

Learning Their Language

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April 8, 2024

By Heather Mullen

--by Marta Williams

Easy and fun to read (some people read it in one night), amazing stories, and a full explanation of how to do animal communication yourself.

What more could you ask? Get from online bookstores and start talking to your animal right away. 

Contact Info - Author website  https://www.martawilliams.com/

Snow Horses: A First Night Story

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January 2, 2024

By Staff Writers

--by Patricia MacLachlan, Illustrated by Micha Archer

This book is a story about a young woman named Jenny who guides her two black horses, Tom and Tim, out into the snowy night for a New Year's celebration with a jingling sled.

Everyone falls asleep as New Year's Eve turns into New Year's Day.

Horse Heart-Secrets of the Equine

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June 12, 2023

By Staff Writers

Horseheart offers a simple, concise, and unique approach to horsemanship.

This book, written for equine lovers ranging from the casual enthusiast to the seasoned expert, explores the four horse personalities and reveals the secrets of how to quickly and efficiently connect with each one.

With a splash of humor, farrier Tim Prindle also demonstrates how horses can help us learn about ourselves and facilitate growth in our own lives.

Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/Horseheart-Secrets-Equine-Timothy-Prindle/dp/1699239681/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2NVN0BG04ZM0X&keywords=Timothy+prindle&qid=1652328227&sprefix=timothy+prindle%2Caps%2C152&sr=8-2

The Magic of Horses

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November 28, 2022

By Staff Writers

 

With contributions from some of the world's leading equestrians –plus a few who aren't so famous – The Magic of Horses offers a glimpse at how a single horse can change a person's life and make an impact far beyond what you might first consider. Horses are givers, whether they are Kentucky Derby winners, Olympians or those waiting to go for a ride somewhere, and this book showcases that spirit with first-hand accounts from trainers, riders, owners, veterinarians and more. 100% of Book proceeds benefits the United States Eventing Association's Young Event Horse Program.

To purchase go to Nunnfiner.com and click the link at the top of the page on Books. or click

https://www.nunnfiner.com/The-Magic-of-Horses-Book-p/magichorsesbook.htm

Heels Down Hall: Adventures of a Working Pupil

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November 15, 2022

By Staff Writers

By Regina Kear Reid

Illustrated by J. Johnson

Winter is the perfect time to curl up with a good book in a cozy room, time travel back to a time before social media, and travel from the old South to England, to a riding school,  in the 1960s…

Horse-crazy seventeen-year-old Alexandra Goodwin's secret ambition is to become an international show jumper.

In order to pursue her dream career with horses, she makes a deal with her parents. If they allow her to delay college for one year and to sign on as a working pupil at Heels Down Hall, a renowned English riding school, Alexa promises to obtain the British Horse Society Assistant Instructor certificate, a globally recognized teaching credential.

During the turbulent summer of 1967, Alexandra leaves the genteel Old South and is transplanted deep into the heart of England. She suddenly finds herself living in Dickensian conditions, in a strange and unfamiliar, sometimes humorous, and definitely non-Disney world. 

While Alexandra learns how to train horses and teach riding, she experiences the thrill of cross-country jumping, and competes in horse trials; but can she pass the Exam and keep her promise to her parents?

Readers’ thoughts:

"Heels Down Hall is a unique insight into a nearly forgotten time and is well worth the read. I enjoyed it." -Charles de Beaulieu

"The characters' many adventures are recounted in vivid detail and with a good dose of humor." -Julia Peterson, Independent Film Producer

"This lighthearted coming-of-age story will inspire you to follow your own equestrian dreams." -Robert "Bob" E. Cacchione, Founder, Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association

Where to buy: Young Adult Equestrian Fiction. Hardcover, paperback, and eBook are available on Amazon. 

To learn more visit: www.hoofbeatsandhorsetales.com.

Trucker: The True Story of a Hero Colt

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October 3, 2022

By Staff Writers

Written by Cristina Scalise.

Illustrated by Deb Hoeffner. 

How can one scrawny little colt save his entire herd of Morgan horses? This inspiring story is told in the voice of this little hero who will steal your heart. Written by a volunteer at the Equine Rescue League where the rescue took place and illustrated with drawings on each page by the award-winning artist Deb Hoeffner, the book is a tribute to the extraordinary spirit of the horse and a salute to equine rescue organizations worldwide. In the words of Pat Rodgers, founder of
the Equine Rescue League, “How can we give up when they do not?”

“I absolutely LOVE how you illustrated this story. You’ve sensitively and gently captured the
terrible conditions of the horses in a way that evokes empathy but not horror. The illustrations
make this book appropriate for all ages…even 6 year olds who would hear it by a parent reading it
aloud. Your love for animals comes through in your art!”
Bruce and Carol Molner, Dawn Publications

Signed Copies available on the artist website www.debhoeffner.com/store
More about the Equine Rescue League here www.equinerescueleague.org

Delightful, new inspirational book by Ginny Jenkins

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May 21, 2022

By SARA CAVANAGH

EVERYONE has their own MIRACULOUS SPIRIT – even horse lovers!

Seek yours today!

You might wish to take a little break and grab a cup of tea to cozy up with a great new inspirational book by our own Advertising Director here at THE HORSE OF DELAWARE VALLEY, Ginny Jenkins.

This might be just the thing to relax with after a hectic day, work in the barn, or out on the trails.

It will surely give you some heartfelt food for thought.

This Ltd. Edition Is made up of mostly full color images of Ginny’s light-hearted artwork and photography, combined with inspirational quotes to remind us all of our own great spirits and to help us be all that we can be.

There are quite a few pieces of her equestrian art pieces in this book too.

You can order copies for $15.95 + SH thru Ginny’s email at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via her Facebook Gallery: “Ginny Jenkins Art”

Shlep ~ Finding Healing on Horseback in the Lower 48

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April 20, 2022

By Heather Mullen

When Kathy decides to leave her abusive marriage, she is 59 years old. She’s unprepared to live on a reduced income when her estranged husband hides his assets from the court. She’s shocked by the cost of rentals in Southern California. She didn’t realize how impossible it would be to land a job at her age and after being out of the market for two decades while she raised her kids. She hasn’t anticipated that her nearly grown children would be mad at her for finally standing up for herself. And she certainly hasn’t expected the way that the prolonged stress of her marriage would fragment her psyche, making her long to not wake up in the morning.The only time she feels halfway sane is when she is riding her horses and so, with a truck and horse trailer paid for with money borrowed from her Dad, Kathy decides to hit the road, riding in each of the lower 48 states until she finds a new place to call home and finds a calm within herself again.

She names the journey SHLEP: Soul-searching, Home seeking, Liberating, Equestrian Party. On her 13-month adventure, most of it solo, she confronts physical challenges and emotional demons. She deals with the dying of both her parents, re-bonding with her sister, and making peace with her three children. She meets so many women who are in the process of re-making their lives after their plans and dreams were shattered; these women are inspired by Kathy’s journey and in turn, provide her with support and sustenance. Perhaps most importantly, she re-establishes her relationship with God and begins to rely on His grace to sustain her. In the process, she makes peace with the “mess of her life” and gains a deeper confidence than she has ever known.

Available on Amazon.com: Click Here to purchase.

The Soul of a Horse~Life Lessons for the Herd.

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December 6, 2021

By Staff Writers

A heartwarming story of a couple and their horse exploring what caring for a horse can teach us about companionship—whether it’s with a four-legged friend or a fellow human.

 A surprise birthday gift plunged Joe and his wife, Kathleen, into the world of horses as complete neophytes without a clue as to what a horse needed or wanted.

They searched for logic and sense in the rule books of traditional horse care. What they found was not what they had expected.

Written for everyone who has ever loved a horse or ever loved the idea of loving a horse, this memoir leads us on a voyage of discovery as Joe and Kathleen navigate uncharted territory on their way to achieving a true relationship with their horses.

Joe Camp’s inspiring book unlocks the mystery of a majestic creature who has survived on earth, without assistance, for fifty-five million years and teaches us that the lessons he learned apply not only to horses but also to our relationships with people.

Available in Book Stores and on Amazon.com - Great for Christmas!

The Original Horse Bible-2nd Edition

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November 2, 2021

By Staff Writers

The most comprehensive single volume dedicated to horses, Original Horse Bible, 2nd Edition is a celebration of the long relationship that humans and horses enjoy, written by two highly regarded horsewomen, the late Moira C. Allen and Sharon Biggs.

Covering an array of topics that span the world of horses, including evolution, domestication, horseback riding, training, competing, breeding, and so much more, making this complete guide is a must-have for any avid horse-lover!

An extensive breed chapter offers portraits of approximately 175 breeds, alphabetically arranged, from the Abaco Barb to the Welsh Pony, plus many rare and handsome breeds from around the world as well as favorites like the American Quarter Horse, the Shetland Pony, and the Thoroughbred.

With over 100 training and behavior tips, more than 50 riding, grooming, and health takeaways, and so much more, the Original Horse Bible belongs on the shelves of anyone who admires these magnificent creatures.

This second edition includes new sections on advances in imaging technology and medications, as well as updated information on saddles, bits, poisonous plants, deworming practices, and natural horsemanship. To purchase the book click here: www.foxchapelpublishing.com

The Fox's Kitchen-Radnor Hunt

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October 12, 2021

By Heather Mullen

From the Radnor Hunt, the oldest continuous foxhunting organization in the US—steeped in tradition and promoting sustainable hunting practices—comes

 

The Fox’s Kitchen, a beautiful cookbook reflecting the intersection between a beloved sport and the country living and entertaining that Radnor Hunt fully embraces.

Radnor Hunt has always epitomized the best of eating, drinking, and making merry; whether it’s contained in a pewter flask or in a crystal port glass; whether it’s served on a paper plate or on Wedgwood porcelain; whether it’s a post-hunting tailgate, hunt breakfast, or dinner for 12!

 

To celebrate this long devotion to food and drink, members and friends of the hunt have come together to create this beautiful collection of recipes borrowed from the kitchens around hunt country.

 

Radnor Hunt is pleased to share this collection of 15 full menus and nearly 100 recipes—everything from cocktails and appetizers to main courses and desserts.

To purchase the book, please visit our website – thehoundsfoundation.org/thefoxskitchen

Ride of a Lifetime

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September 7, 2021

By Staff Writers

“Ride of a Lifetime” is the story of Cynthia "Tootie" Anderson's lifetime journey with horses, and with one mare in particular.  At a low ebb in Tootie's life, a big chestnut mare named Zoe entered and turned Tootie's world around.  Horse lovers as well as those who don’t have any experience with horses will enjoy this book about joy, sadness, redemption, giving, and loving.  Readers will also feel the raw emotions Tootie experienced when she had to overcome more obstacles than one could count, and conversely will ride right alongside her to experience her highs and success.  There is something in it for everyone as it is a true “underdog takes all” story, but any junior or adult amateur who has had struggles in the horse world is sure to identify with some part of the story and love it!

Tootie currently lives in Bluemont, VA with her husband Gary, 2 dogs, and a varying number of horses depending on the time of year.  She has a boutique business importing young Irish Sport Horses, training them herself, and then reselling them as competitive mounts.  She also works for Ride On Ranch in Lovettsville, VA providing hippotherapy Physical Therapy services.

This book may be purchased on the book page at www.optimusfarm.com.  Alternatively, those who do not have the ability to order online may send a personal check.  Please email Tootie This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for mailing address.  Thank you for your support!

From the Horse's Point of View

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August 26, 2021

By Staff Writers

An eye-opening book leading equestrians into a brave new horse world, where we train horses their way, not ours.

For years, Andrea Kutsch filled stadiums with spectators as she demonstrated remarkable transformations in “problem horses” using the Natural Horsemanship training methods she'd learned from leaders in the field. But something was bothering her—a feeling that had been with her since her childhood days, watching Icelandics in a field and coming up through a traditional German riding system. Despite the strides made in improving the horse's well-being through the worldwide adoption of Natural Horsemanship techniques, she knew that the methods were still missing something.

Kutsch set out to find the next stage in the evolution of horse training. She studied the results of methods she used with thousands of young horses at The Lewitz Stud in Neustadt-Glewe, Germany, the renowned farm owned by European champion Paul Schockemöhle. This provided the basis for what she calls Evidence-Based Equine Communication™ (EBEC), a means of reading the horse and understanding the world from his point of view. Here she introduces EBEC and how it can take our relationship with horses and their ability to perform as our partners to a whole new level. 

Certain to provide ideas for improving every interaction with horses, whatever your experience or discipline, From the Horse's Point of View is a conversation-starter for all those looking to take their horsemanship to a whole new level.

Check it out for purchase: From the Horse's Point of View

On The Hoof

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August 26, 2021

By Staff Writers

The true tale of a voyage that broke a man down and built him back up, with the help of one special horse.

At 36 Jesse McNeil—at times carpenter, commercial fisherman, dabbler in real estate—decided to buy an untrained horse, make himself into a horseman, and ride all the way across the United States, from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean.

A fiercely independent traveler, Jesse had navigated previous coast-to-coast trips—solo journeys by moped, bicycle, and small airplane. This time, however, he had a partner: a five-year-old Tennessee Walking Horse named Pepper. An inexperienced horseman with an equally inexperienced mount, Jesse would quickly discover the immense challenges of his new undertaking. Over the course of eight months and fourteen states—beginning in Oregon and ending on a beach in New Hampshire—he would be tested many times over as he learned not only what it took to keep Pepper safe and healthy, but the true value of qualities that he had once easily dismissed: patience and companionship.

The generosity of strangers, from helpful ranchers and storekeepers to suburban families, shaped the pair's journey east. And while at some points the miles didn't unfold as Jesse hoped, others yielded unexpected events that changed his perspective—and quite possibly, his future. Written with honesty, grit, and grace, On the Hoof captures an arduous voyage that broke a man down and built him back up, with the help of one special horse.

Check it out for purchase: On The Hoof

Still Horse Crazy After All These Years

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June 26, 2021

By Staff Writers

A rare insider's look at the life of a professional sportsman as he tries to reconcile the passion that drives him with livelihood, family, and aging.

Known for his wit, irreverence, and whip-smart observations on equestrian sport and its participants, three-time Olympian Jim Wofford's writing is as legendary as his performances in the saddle.

Now he again brings his immense talent for telling tales---all of them (mostly) true---to the page in his autobiography.

Growing up on a Kansas farm that shared a border with Fort Riley, home to the U.S. Cavalry School from 1887 to 1949, and the son of a sporting Army-man who rode in uniform in the 1932 Olympics, Wofford shares his wholly unique perspective on horsemanship and the history of equestrian competition in the United States.

Check it out for purchase:  Still Horse Crazy After All These Years

Distant Skies: An American Journey on Horseback

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June 26, 2021

By Staff Writers

A solo 2600 mile adventure for a girl, a horse, and a dog that started in New York and ended in California that tested the authors' mental, physical and emotional resources. 

Horses Naturally

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May 17, 2021

By Staff Writers

As a natural Equine Photographer, Ginny sets glamour aside with a touching collection of all-natural Equine shots of her own and endearing quotes about the intimate moments with horses that so often go unnoticed in our busy lives.....a distant whinny, the lazy swish of a tail, the warm low whicker of an eager friend pleased to see you.   

Jump the Moon

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April 8, 2021

By Staff Writers

Jump the Moon is based on a true story by Kathy Simmers with illustrations by Marjorie Van Heerden.

The newest pony to arrive at the barn is ordinary, ugly even and on top of that, she is mean.

But the girl with the long blonde hair doesn’t seem to care, she is drawn to her and determined to earn the pony’s trust.

Over the course of the summer, the pair develop an incredible bond.

Then, tragically, as summer ends the two are separated.

Readers will eagerly turn the pages to find out if the girl and the pony will ever see each other again.

The beautiful illustrations throughout this picture book bring to life an emotional journey, inspiring readers to follow their dreams.

THE SMALLEST HORSE is fun for the kids!

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March 24, 2021

By Staff Writers

The Smallest Horse tells the story of Trixie, a miniature horse who worries she's not big enough to have an important job on the ranch.

Children will delight in this heartwarming tale as they follow Trixie's misadventures and ultimate realization

that she does indeed have a very special purpose on the ranch.

This is the first book in the Pony Dreams series. All of the horses in the Pony Dreams stories are real,

and each one has a distinct personality, a unique life experience and different likes and dislikes.

After children read the story, they can visit the Pony Dreams website to meet Trixie and the rest of the herd

through a series of fun and educational videos and posts about the horses and the topics broached in each book.

Visit: www.ponydreams.com

It's For the Horses

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March 17, 2021

By Staff Writers

Dutch Henry is a true horse advocate who finds joy as he guides the horse/human relationship closer to and into this space in this great book.

It is a highly useful resource for all people who want to do right by the horses in their life.

Once you read it, you will not regret it.

Nor will your horses.

This project compiles Dutch Henry's years of experience gathering helpful - sometimes life-altering - exercises for the horse.

This ability to help the horse sometimes reciprocates in a life-altering shift in the human.

Enjoy the shift in you and your horse's relationship. Order today at email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or www.itsforthehorses.com

ACU-HORSE: A Guide to Equine Acupressure

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March 19, 2021

By Staff Writers

ACU-HORSE is perfect for horse owners, healthcare providers, trainers, and all equine

• Over 30 acupressure point charts for specific emotional and physical conditions
• 12 Major Meridian Charts presenting key acupressure points
• Photos & descriptions of hands-on techniques
• Comprehensive discussion of the acupressure session protocol
• Discussion of Traditional Chinese Medicine theories & concepts
• And, Much More!

'Into the Secret Heart of Ashdown Forest: A Horseman's Country Diary' by Julian Roup

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March 19, 2021

By Staff Writers

Into the Secret Heart of Ashdown Forest is a love letter after a forty-year affair.

Wry, funny, moving and vivid, this memoir chronicles the life of the author and the ten square miles of country he calls his Kingdom.

This book is as good as a brisk walk in the woods on an autumn day.

Written with love and passion, it is a hymn to landscape and freedom.

It is a close and deep observation of the writer’s adopted country, the fabled Ashdown Forest in East Sussex, England,

(the home of Winnie the Pooh),

where he has lived and ridden for the past forty years.

His gift is the ability to take you deep into the landscapes that make this place resonate in his heart: its streams, woods, heathlands.

You meet its literary residents, A.A, Milne, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Ezra Pound and W.B. Yeats.

You get beneath its skin among the networks of fungi that allow the trees to speak.

You taste its foods, meet its locals, both the living and the ghosts, and see its huge importance

during the plague year 2020-21 through the pandemic lockdowns.

He takes you under the soil of this place and he leaves a soft glow on the landscape when he is gone.

https://www.blkdogpublishing.com/post/ashdown