2008-03-16 moving story hugely enjoyed by non-horsey person

A great book I recommend to anyone and everyone whether they like horses and riding or not, though I would not recommend it for younger readers below teenage years.

Buck's autobiography follows his life from infant to close to the present day with an emphasis on the characters and personalities in his life. Some of the key personalities are of the 'far away horses' he has come across. The horses Buck describes as 'far away' are at least difficult and more fequently dangerous to handle. There are many sad and joyful moments described in the book; in particular, there are some very difficult times Buck had as a child. These times are described in quite a factual way and not overemotionalized.

Personally I have had a couple of riding lessons many years ago, but am in no way a 'horsey person'. I hugely enjoyed this book because it tells a very interesting story in an engaging manner, which is very accessible to the 'unhorsed' such as me. Buck works with 'difficult' horses who are hard to control and there is a parallel in terms of working with 'difficult' people.

I have not heard the opinions of people who work with horses about this book; my guess is that some will love it and others may not think much of the way Buck has decided to handle horses.

In summary, I think this book is well worth a read and it has my five stars unreservedly. I found it a thought provoking, engaging and honest account. Finally, this book has a short description of the the 'Horse Whisperer' book and film came to be, which I think would appeal to many readers. Would love to write more, but don't want to spoil the book!