Rating:  Summary: Great reading! Review: This book reminded me of reading Memoirs of a Geisha. I have no interest in geishas or horseracing, but read and thoroughly enjoyed both books. Look forward to the movie.
Rating:  Summary: Awesome! Review: This is a can't-put-down book that I'd recommend to anyone who enjoys a great story and excellent writing. Lots of detail about what it was like to be a jockey in the 20s and 30s; incredible insight into the mind of a stellar animal that no one could seem to understand until the right guy came along. Each character has his own unique story, and on top of everything else, it's a history of the times, that reads like a potboiler novel. EXCELLENT!
Rating:  Summary: Could not put this one down Review: The story of Seabiscuit and all people involved is truly a bit of American history. Not only the story of a great animal but also a look into the lives of those involved in horseracing at a time when money was scarce. It even tells of some beautiful love stories and dedication. Not normally a fast reader, I galloped through this in a week. In my opinion Laura Hillenbrand did an excellent job in writing a book in a format that does not require previous knowledge of horseracing. Can't wait for the screenplay!
Rating:  Summary: The best book you'll read all year. Review: You don't have to know a thing about horse racing or even care about horses to love this book. Laura Hillenbrand has written a book so good that it sets the gold standard for all racing histories and simultaneously transcends its subject and becomes a classic portrait of early 20th century America. This is the story of the miraculous meeting of 4 uniquely self-made men - the exuberant owner, the mystical trainer and two colorful jockeys - and one less than promising racehorse. Together they lived the greatest adventure in racing history. Hillenbrand makes the technical minutia of racing interesting to the layman through wonderful anecdotes. Not only will you learn the physical feats and tactical strategy a jockey must employ during a race, but you will also enjoy Hillenbrand's vivid description of the jockey's journeyman life. The tale of Seabiscuit's rise from obscurity is filled with so many twists and turns that I don't want say to much about it, but suffice to say, it will keep you on the edge of your seat. Be sure to read Hillenbrand's "Acknowledgements" at the end of the book. The story of how she researched the book and the interviews she conducted is fascinating. I don't care what Hillenbrand's next book is about - judging from how good this one was, I'll buy it sight unseen.
Rating:  Summary: One of the all-time great horse stories! Review: Not only am I thrilled with Seabiscuit, his owner, trainer, and jockey, I am also thrilled with Laura Hillenbrand. What a story, and Ms. Hillenbrand has breathed exquisite life into it all over again! Truly, I couldn't ask for a more outlandish equine hero in even a Hollywood race film, but to consider that this is a true story is absolutely mind-numbing. Good work Laura AND Seabiscuit!
Rating:  Summary: Seabiscuit wins in a walk Review: This is the best book I have read in five years. I heard the author talking about her book on NPR and for the life of me couldn't figure out how I would ever get into a book about a horse. I quickly found out that the book is about so much more than a horse. It is about a period of time in our history and the people who made it special. I happen to love horses, but if you love them or have never been on one, this book is worthwhile reading. The prose is astonishing. I can't believe I haven't read this author before. I will be reading her work in the future, I am certain.
Rating:  Summary: You Gotta Have Heart Review: The author did an unbelievable amount of research to write this book. Check the list at the end of the book. How the owner, trainer, horse and jockey all came together is an absorbing story, and has a great deal of general history too. The author is a master of describing a horse race. Some of her race descriptions are almost like seeing the race. This book is a masterpiece of writing as it shows the dedication and drive of all the people involved and especially the heart and gameness of Seabiscuit. There is a good insight into the life of jockeys as well as their mounts. No horse lover should miss this book. I stayed up late to finish it in one read.
Rating:  Summary: seabiscuit Review: I didn't read this book, it was a birthday gift to my father. I do know that it has been very enjoyable for my dad, who is an avid horserace fan. My father, who is not one to talk on the phone, has made it a point to tell me how much he loves this book. So, if there is a horseracing fan in your house, or anyone that likes horses in general, I think this is a good buy.
Rating:  Summary: A biographical thriller Review: This beautifully told story of 4 "characters" and their horses keeps you turning the pages. If you like biographies, pick this one up. Hillenbrand takes you inside the minds and lives of several idiosyncratic men who you will never forget. Don't worry if you don't know or care about horse racing - I certainly didn't. But early in the story the sport grips you, and through one thrilling race after another, you fall in love with it. We don't seem to have this kind of singular hero in our time; the media hype and excess stimulation create a seemingly endless procession of miracles, spectables, scandals, and crises. This book harkens back to a simpler time, when a homely horse could capture the national imagination, and more ink than the President of the United States. May we live to see it again.
Rating:  Summary: Seabiscuit: An American Legend Review: This wonderfull book brings the years from early last century through the thirties to life. Hillenbrand brings the lives and times of some very interesting people to life. If you are a Horse, Racing, or History fan you'll love this book.
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