Customer Reviews

Barbaro, Smarty Jones and Ruffian: The People's Horses

5 star:		(14)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Dr. Hanna conducted perhaps the last interview with Frank Whiteley, the trainer for Ruffian, before his recent death. This is just one of the fascinating aspects of this book. In telling the tales of Ruffian, Barbaro and Smarty Jones, she has dug a "little deeper" than most biographers to glean details that have not been shared to date.
In the case of Smarty and Barbaro, you are reading about two outstanding colts: one who should have been a Triple Crown winner and the other with unlimited -- and sadly -- unrealized potential.
With Ruffian, you are reading about a filly that won the "Triple Tiara" and set track and stakes records with nearly every race. As Lucien Lauren -- the trainer of Secretariat -- is reported to have said, "As God is my witness, she might be better than him."
All three of these wonderful horses were undefeated until their last race. Truly, this book tells why these horses and their connections were so compelling and why they are truly the "people's horses." A book you will not want to put down.

Linda Hanna takes three of the most enduring names in Thoroughbred racing and weaves a wonderful read that goes beyond straight-forward biographies.

Through her research - that uncovers new gems - and discussing major current issues like synthetic racing surfaces and the ongoing debate on the breeding of the runners - the book correctly brings onto the track the flow of events within the entire industry, where nothing occurs in a vacuum.

A special section is a tribute to the champions by Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell. Barbaro, Smarty Jones and Ruffian. The trio have each brought special or renewed focus on Thoroughbred racing, oftentimes under some very tragic circumstances.

But it's through the memories captured by Hanna which ultimately becomes the impetus for reform and the call for many to get involved in issues great and small that positively impact the future of every Thoroughbred, even if they don't stride from the starting gate to the winner's circle.

Barbaro, Smarty Jones and Ruffian, The People's Horses is a thoroughly researched compilation of a trio of stories. The author gives a compelling, poignant read about the lives of three magnificent Thoroughbreds, the people surrounding them and the dynamic effect these horses have had on the racing industry and on us. It is well written and easily understandable by those who do not follow the world of horses and racing. Even so, experienced horse people will find this a wonderful, informative read as well. There are pages of beautiful artwork and photographs of all three horses. It also includes a glossary explaining terms from the horse to the track, something not found in most other books. Hanna's Legacy section ties it all together and brings forth new aspects on the racing industry and the calls for change, particularly in light of the breakdown of Eight Belles in the 2008 Kentucky Derby. This is an absolute must-have book for anyone, whether they are a horse enthusiast or not.

I have been a fan of horse racing for many years and feel somewhat knowledgeable about many aspects of the sport. When I read this book I learned many new things about a multitude of different areas. The stories on the three horses were warm and touching with a true caring perspective. I would recommend it highly to all - it is a true wealth of knowledge for the genuine fan. This is a true gem!

You will not find a more detailed book about any of these three horses. The References section comes close to 40 pages. Every page is densely packed and written in a strong, narrative style. Rare photographs are included as well. There's a reason all the other reviewers have given it 5 stars.

I purchased this book over the Internet. I had followed the careers of Smarty Jones and Barbaro as a devoted fan--Barbaro's death really effected me after so many months of hoping and praying.I thought that this book would give me more information on the lives of the owners, the races of the horses and their appeal to the nation. I would have to say that it was much more than that--it is a CLASSIC. I learned SO much about thoroughbred racing, its traditions, its audience, its attempt to help horses and their legacies. What a powerful and wonderful read!!!! Kudos to the author!!

This is one of the BEST books EVER written about these 3 outstanding, magnificent Thoroughbreds! Their greatness that touched millions, was gone all too soon, tragically for these 3 youngsters...the author captures every aspect and the research done to compile such a GREAT masterpiece, is like no other! Reading this book, makes you feel like you are a part of it and you just can't put it down! As a Thoroughbred owner/rescuer and avid follower of racing greatness, I learned some things that I did not know or fully understand...the book made me see it more clearly. I only wish the author, who could not have then known, that another untimely death in TB Racing, was about to make history...if that story could have also been incorporated into this book. The "Eight Belles" tradgedy...another story of SUPERB GREATNESS needing to be told; another book for Linda to write? THANK YOU LINDA HANNA*****

Very well-researched and well-written stories about three racing greats. Thoroughly engrossing, I could hardly put the book down. The background stories behind the horses are fascinating, and the great artwork and photos are impressive additions. I like how the author takes the reader beyond the "biographies" of the horses and into the legacy that they have left behind. Obviously a true horse lover, Hanna examines topics such as why Thoroughbreds seem to be more injury-prone than they were in years past and discusses the controversial new PolyTrack synthetic racing surfaces, retired racehorse rescue efforts, etc. A great read for anyone who loves horses, not just racing.

This is a thoroughly engaging and informative history of thoroughbred horseracing, highlighting its roots in Pennsylvania. The author accomplishes this by telling the very special, yet at times tragic, stories of three horses, Ruffian, Smarty Jones, and Barbaro, and their quests for the Triple Crown.
Whether you are a knowledgeable racehorse enthusiast or not, their stories will capture your heart just like they have already done to fans around the world. You will love and appreciate these horses!

Linda Hanna's book shares a characteristic with the horses she describes: heart. Her love of the horses and the sport permeates the book. One thing that distinguishes the book is the extensive research that is accurately documented in the 23 pages of bibliography. Based on this research, she has written a highly readable book that introduces readers to the sport of horse racing as well as to the lives of three remarkable horses.