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Seabiscuit: An American Legend
There's an alternate cover edition here
Seabiscuit was one of the most electrifying and popular attractions in sports history and the single biggest newsmaker in the world in 1938, receiving more coverage than FDR, Hitler, or Mussolini. But his success was a surprise to the racing establishment, which had written off the crooked-legged racehorse with the sad tail. Three men changed Seabiscuit’s fortunes:
Charles Howard was a onetime bicycle repairman who introduced the automobile to the western United States and became an overnight millionaire. When he needed a trainer for his new racehorses, he hired Tom Smith, a mysterious mustang breaker from the Colorado plains. Smith urged Howard to buy Seabiscuit for a bargain-basement price, then hired as his jockey Red Pollard, a failed boxer who was blind in one eye, half-crippled, and prone to quoting passages from Ralph Waldo Emerson. Over four years, these unlikely partners survived a phenomenal run of bad fortune, conspiracy, and severe injury to transform Seabiscuit from a neurotic, pathologically indolent also-ran into an American sports icon.
Author Laura Hillenbrand brilliantly re-creates a universal underdog story, one that proves life is a horse race.
From the Hardcover edition.
Seabiscuit was one of the most electrifying and popular attractions in sports history and the single biggest newsmaker in the world in 1938, receiving more coverage than FDR, Hitler, or Mussolini. But his success was a surprise to the racing establishment, which had written off the crooked-legged racehorse with the sad tail. Three men changed Seabiscuit’s fortunes:
Charles Howard was a onetime bicycle repairman who introduced the automobile to the western United States and became an overnight millionaire. When he needed a trainer for his new racehorses, he hired Tom Smith, a mysterious mustang breaker from the Colorado plains. Smith urged Howard to buy Seabiscuit for a bargain-basement price, then hired as his jockey Red Pollard, a failed boxer who was blind in one eye, half-crippled, and prone to quoting passages from Ralph Waldo Emerson. Over four years, these unlikely partners survived a phenomenal run of bad fortune, conspiracy, and severe injury to transform Seabiscuit from a neurotic, pathologically indolent also-ran into an American sports icon.
Author Laura Hillenbrand brilliantly re-creates a universal underdog story, one that proves life is a horse race.
From the Hardcover edition.
457 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 30, 1999
About the author
Laura Hillenbrand
10 books4,282 followersLaura Hillenbrand (born 1967) is the author of the acclaimed Seabiscuit: An American Legend, a non-fiction account of the career of the great racehorse Seabiscuit, for which she won the William Hill Sports Book of the Year in 2001. The book later became the basis of the 2003 movie Seabiscuit. Her essays have appeared in The New Yorker, Equus magazine, American Heritage, The Blood-Horse, Thoroughbred Times, The Backstretch, Turf and Sport Digest, and many other publications. Her 1998 American Heritage article on the horse Seabiscuit won the Eclipse Award for Magazine Writing.
Born in Fairfax, Virginia, Hillenbrand studied at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio, but was forced to leave before graduation when she contracted chronic fatigue syndrome, which she has struggled with ever since. She now lives in Washington, D.C.
Born in Fairfax, Virginia, Hillenbrand studied at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio, but was forced to leave before graduation when she contracted chronic fatigue syndrome, which she has struggled with ever since. She now lives in Washington, D.C.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,050 reviews
October 28, 2018
I have been known to bet a couple of bucks on a horse race or two. I lived in Kentucky for about 10 years where horse racing is king. Now I live within a couple of hours of close to a dozen horse tracks - including Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby. Because of all this, I figured I might be interested in the biography of one of history's most famous horses.
I was definitely satisfied with the experience!
The story of Seabiscuit reads like it was written for Hollywood and plays out like almost every emotional sports story ever. Humble beginnings, Scrappy, unlikely heroes, successes, adversity, failure, no hope, recovery, and final ultimate triumph - all these elements are here! You will be amazed, you will be moved, you will be yelling at each horse race retelling, cheering of Seabiscuit to succeed. In the end, I can 99% guarantee you will be exhausted and satisfied.
While it did not bother me, there is an awful lot about horse racing and horse training. If these things do not interest you, you may find some parts slow. Luckily for me, I was enthralled with horse training and the finer points of horse racing much more that I ever thought I would be.
If you enjoy a good sports story, if you like stories about the underdog becoming the champion, or if you enjoy books with a good history lesson, it is definitely worth giving Seabiscuit a try!
I was definitely satisfied with the experience!
The story of Seabiscuit reads like it was written for Hollywood and plays out like almost every emotional sports story ever. Humble beginnings, Scrappy, unlikely heroes, successes, adversity, failure, no hope, recovery, and final ultimate triumph - all these elements are here! You will be amazed, you will be moved, you will be yelling at each horse race retelling, cheering of Seabiscuit to succeed. In the end, I can 99% guarantee you will be exhausted and satisfied.
While it did not bother me, there is an awful lot about horse racing and horse training. If these things do not interest you, you may find some parts slow. Luckily for me, I was enthralled with horse training and the finer points of horse racing much more that I ever thought I would be.
If you enjoy a good sports story, if you like stories about the underdog becoming the champion, or if you enjoy books with a good history lesson, it is definitely worth giving Seabiscuit a try!
September 9, 2011
Prior to November 2003, non-fiction only entered my reading choices on sporadic occasions. In November 2003, a pioneering member of my book club was the first to choose a non-fiction book instead of a novel. That book was Seabiscuit.
Even though I have always loved horses, I had avoided reading Seabiscuit. I just couldn't believe that all the hype was real. So many times I had picked up a non-fiction book on a topic that I was really curious about, and either put it down unfinished or forced myself to slog through it. Despite my interest in the subject matter, the writing would drive me crazy - too technical, too boring, too text-book like. In fact, as one of those over-achieving students who always completed college reading assignments, I would have to say that many textbooks were actually better reads than the average non-fiction offering on store shelves.
Seabiscuit, I was happy to find, was a complete surprise. The hype was real. No wonder it had sold so many copies. It really does read like a novel, and yet it is so deep - Ms. Hillenbrand has really explored her topic thoroughly and passes on all the details to us. There is a section where she describes the jockeys' experience of riding in a race that is one of the best pieces of prose I have ever, and will ever, read. I read it over and over. It's so visceral, she really puts you in the saddle, plus the prose is beautiful in and of itself. Another reason for the success of this novel is her success at placing the events in their historical context. She not only puts you in the saddle, she takes you back in time.
This was one of the universally best-received choices we've read in book club. Everyone loved it, whether or not they cared at all about horses or sports. And ever since then, I've given non-fiction more chances, and with better luck, than ever before. Sometimes I still put one down unfinished, but now that I know how they can be, I try more often.
I highly recommend Seabiscuit to any of the following people:
anyone who has the slightest interest in horses or sports,
anyone who thinks jockeys have an easy job,
anyone interested in American history,
anyone with no interest in horses who just loves good writing,
anyone who thinks non-fiction is dull and would welcome a surprise,
and EVERYONE ELSE! :o)
==========================
Update, 2011
Just finished reading for the second time, this time aloud. Still LOVE this book. And while reading aloud (which really makes you take your time!) I was powerfully struck again by the Ms. Hillenbrand's facility with language - to say she has "a way with words" is entirely inadequate to express the beauty and expressiveness of her writing. But although beautiful, please don't think her writing might be too "prosy" - it is NOT unnecessarily flowery or overbearing. Seabiscuit is simply a fabulous read.
Even though I have always loved horses, I had avoided reading Seabiscuit. I just couldn't believe that all the hype was real. So many times I had picked up a non-fiction book on a topic that I was really curious about, and either put it down unfinished or forced myself to slog through it. Despite my interest in the subject matter, the writing would drive me crazy - too technical, too boring, too text-book like. In fact, as one of those over-achieving students who always completed college reading assignments, I would have to say that many textbooks were actually better reads than the average non-fiction offering on store shelves.
Seabiscuit, I was happy to find, was a complete surprise. The hype was real. No wonder it had sold so many copies. It really does read like a novel, and yet it is so deep - Ms. Hillenbrand has really explored her topic thoroughly and passes on all the details to us. There is a section where she describes the jockeys' experience of riding in a race that is one of the best pieces of prose I have ever, and will ever, read. I read it over and over. It's so visceral, she really puts you in the saddle, plus the prose is beautiful in and of itself. Another reason for the success of this novel is her success at placing the events in their historical context. She not only puts you in the saddle, she takes you back in time.
This was one of the universally best-received choices we've read in book club. Everyone loved it, whether or not they cared at all about horses or sports. And ever since then, I've given non-fiction more chances, and with better luck, than ever before. Sometimes I still put one down unfinished, but now that I know how they can be, I try more often.
I highly recommend Seabiscuit to any of the following people:
anyone who has the slightest interest in horses or sports,
anyone who thinks jockeys have an easy job,
anyone interested in American history,
anyone with no interest in horses who just loves good writing,
anyone who thinks non-fiction is dull and would welcome a surprise,
and EVERYONE ELSE! :o)
==========================
Update, 2011
Just finished reading for the second time, this time aloud. Still LOVE this book. And while reading aloud (which really makes you take your time!) I was powerfully struck again by the Ms. Hillenbrand's facility with language - to say she has "a way with words" is entirely inadequate to express the beauty and expressiveness of her writing. But although beautiful, please don't think her writing might be too "prosy" - it is NOT unnecessarily flowery or overbearing. Seabiscuit is simply a fabulous read.
December 7, 2020
I make no bones about it. This is the book that inspired me to write The Boys in the Boat. It may be the most well crafted narrative nonfiction book since In Cold Blood and The Right Stuff.
December 8, 2018
4.5 stars
What a remarkable story!
Brilliant once it got going, and wonderfully crafted by Laura Hillenbrand.
I learned a lot about horses and racing. And that jockeys are badass!
🏇
What a remarkable story!
Brilliant once it got going, and wonderfully crafted by Laura Hillenbrand.
I learned a lot about horses and racing. And that jockeys are badass!
🏇
November 27, 2017
Welcome to the sparkling, colorful and vibrant world of racehorses and tournaments with his legends, dramas and passions.... located in the USA of the nineteenth twenties .......
Openly speaking, friends, let me say that I would never have pick up a book about racehorses and only because of the greats and awesome reviews at goodreads, and also because Laura Hillenbrand was the author, did I in the end made my mind up to read this one......and thanks God that I did!!!!!
Let me tell you also that this book is written brilliantly and masterly, believe me folks, if I say that you will not be able to put it down, its not an exaggeration at all.....
Then if you will include the fact that Hillenbrand was severely sick at the time she wrote it and has rendered indeed a marvelous and thoroughly researched piece of work, then you will be left dumbfounded to the uttermost.
Also, I have learned a lot about horses, jockeys, tournaments, competitions, and the feeling that existed in the America of the depression era, people trying to recuperate from a financial depression and a war going on!!!!
Having said that, it remains still a tale of resilience, fight, and the story of an underdog--what in my opinion is almost always a good one, indeed--
The main characters arouse empathy, so that you will suffer with them, although they are full of flaws and defects, but they never give up!!!!
Please, let me say it again, Laura Hillenbrand can indeed write, and that very very good!!!!!
Believe me.....
"Seabiscuit" has reminded me positively of her other book "unbroken"......
A wonderful and an inspiring tale, I did love and enjoy it to the uttermost indeed......
Five stars, and happy about that!!!!!
Dean;D
Openly speaking, friends, let me say that I would never have pick up a book about racehorses and only because of the greats and awesome reviews at goodreads, and also because Laura Hillenbrand was the author, did I in the end made my mind up to read this one......and thanks God that I did!!!!!
Let me tell you also that this book is written brilliantly and masterly, believe me folks, if I say that you will not be able to put it down, its not an exaggeration at all.....
Then if you will include the fact that Hillenbrand was severely sick at the time she wrote it and has rendered indeed a marvelous and thoroughly researched piece of work, then you will be left dumbfounded to the uttermost.
Also, I have learned a lot about horses, jockeys, tournaments, competitions, and the feeling that existed in the America of the depression era, people trying to recuperate from a financial depression and a war going on!!!!
Having said that, it remains still a tale of resilience, fight, and the story of an underdog--what in my opinion is almost always a good one, indeed--
The main characters arouse empathy, so that you will suffer with them, although they are full of flaws and defects, but they never give up!!!!
Please, let me say it again, Laura Hillenbrand can indeed write, and that very very good!!!!!
Believe me.....
"Seabiscuit" has reminded me positively of her other book "unbroken"......
A wonderful and an inspiring tale, I did love and enjoy it to the uttermost indeed......
Five stars, and happy about that!!!!!
Dean;D
March 16, 2021
As mentioned in many of the status updates for this book, I had seen the Jeff Bridges film several times so it made sense to read it. To say this is an inspiring story doesn't do it justice. Given the time frame of the story, the risk involved for Charles Howard to dip his toe into horse racing was monumental. But he was no ordinary man nor were his choices. A tight-lipped trainer that was too old, a red headed jockey that was too big, and a race horse nobody wanted. Who would have thought this group would achieve countless records while taking in nearly a half million in winnings? But this is the 1930s which in today's dollars would be billions! Remarkable in all ways, you don't have to be a racing fan or horse lover to enjoy this: I'm not. And like most adaptations, creative liberties are taken to modify story to actors or length. See the movie; read the book!
August 8, 2007
I'm jealous of this woman, because she writes better than I do. I've always been a little snobby towards Seabiscuit, as I'm a devoted War Admiral fan, but this is probably the best book out there that really captures the essence of horse racing, and she picked the right horse to do it with.
This story is not just about Seabiscuit. It's also about humanity, and most importantly (to me), racing itself, as it was in the 1930s. You will be astonished at what you learn from this book, from the incredible hardships jockies are willing to endure for love of their sport to the unique "underworld" that exists behind the scenes. Her research is extensive and meticulous, her writing style engaging and honest. She brings this whole world to life, and I'm thrilled that such a window into the sport that I love has been opened for the average person who knows nothing about it, nor has probably ever wondered or cared.
This story is not just about Seabiscuit. It's also about humanity, and most importantly (to me), racing itself, as it was in the 1930s. You will be astonished at what you learn from this book, from the incredible hardships jockies are willing to endure for love of their sport to the unique "underworld" that exists behind the scenes. Her research is extensive and meticulous, her writing style engaging and honest. She brings this whole world to life, and I'm thrilled that such a window into the sport that I love has been opened for the average person who knows nothing about it, nor has probably ever wondered or cared.
February 20, 2020
“It's easy to talk to a horse if you understand his language. Horses stay the same from the day they are born until the day they die. They are only changed by the way people treat them.”
― Laura Hillenbrand, Seabiscuit: An American Legend
I love LOVE..the story of Sea Biscuit. What a horse! He seemed almost human to me.
We here in my family are huge Horse fans and Derby fans and even have had Kentucky Derby parties. There are a few horses that just leave me speechless. Secretariet is one. Sea Biscuit is another.
The book is so vivid you will feel like you are there. It is a wonderful story about an exceptional champion Horse. And the writer really deserves kudos. From what I understand she wrote this..or much of this..while she was sick with Epstein Bar. My mom has had Epstein Bar and I know how weak that can make one. The fact that she wrote a book like this is amazing.
Highly HIGHLY recommended for all Horse lovers.
― Laura Hillenbrand, Seabiscuit: An American Legend
I love LOVE..the story of Sea Biscuit. What a horse! He seemed almost human to me.
We here in my family are huge Horse fans and Derby fans and even have had Kentucky Derby parties. There are a few horses that just leave me speechless. Secretariet is one. Sea Biscuit is another.
The book is so vivid you will feel like you are there. It is a wonderful story about an exceptional champion Horse. And the writer really deserves kudos. From what I understand she wrote this..or much of this..while she was sick with Epstein Bar. My mom has had Epstein Bar and I know how weak that can make one. The fact that she wrote a book like this is amazing.
Highly HIGHLY recommended for all Horse lovers.
June 8, 2022
A very inspiring read - the story of Seabiscuit and his rider Red Pollard as well as Charles Howard (owner). Laura Hillenbrand did a wonderful job telling their story. Horse stories make me cry every time... I don't understand why. 😥
April 12, 2013
I don't read very much non- fiction but I just loved this !
March 24, 2019
Laura Hillenbrand breathes life and intimate detail to the world of horse racing. I loved Sea Biscuit, the underdog, who prevailed to a hero. Laura writes non-fiction like the best fiction, and I appreciate the way she makes it real. Because of Seabisquit, I have attended horse races! And even bet! The latest race was the Breeders Cup at Del Mar, and the horse I bet on, (One Wild Broad?) won! What a thrill!
Rebecca Rosenberg
THE SECRET LIFE OF MRS. LONDON
The Secret Life of Mrs. London
Please FOLLOW! https://www.facebook.com/rebeccarosen...
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072KRP7MN
http://www.rebecca-rosenberg.com
Rebecca Rosenberg
THE SECRET LIFE OF MRS. LONDON
The Secret Life of Mrs. London
Please FOLLOW! https://www.facebook.com/rebeccarosen...
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072KRP7MN
http://www.rebecca-rosenberg.com
September 25, 2019
Can I give this 6 stars please!!!
Such a moving story!!
Wonderful! Full of heart! Amazing!
I simply just adore it!!
And it was even better than the movie! Which should really tell you something since I probably know that movie by heart, having already seen it 6 times till now.
Seabiscuit is the best!!
Such a moving story!!
Wonderful! Full of heart! Amazing!
I simply just adore it!!
And it was even better than the movie! Which should really tell you something since I probably know that movie by heart, having already seen it 6 times till now.
Seabiscuit is the best!!
December 10, 2008
A true inspirational story about broken hearts and lost souls, the golden thread that holds them together and yes.. belief. Belief in oneself.
A horse, trained to lose right from its birth. Lose so that others can look good when they win. Lose, so that when they win, they can look back and see others way behind. A horse, which has learned to live with pain and humiliation. A horse, which is angry. It is this horse that catches the eye of Tom Smith, a veteran horse trainer employed under Charles Howard, a broken industrialist who has lost his young son. Tom Smith realizes what the horse has been put through to and begins to heal it and make it start believing in itself. Enters Red Pollard, a loser jockey employed under Charles Howard too. The story then moves on to the relationship that Red Pollard and the horse share, the way they start to heal each other and what common things they find between themselves.
Beautifully written and amazingly uplifting!
A horse, trained to lose right from its birth. Lose so that others can look good when they win. Lose, so that when they win, they can look back and see others way behind. A horse, which has learned to live with pain and humiliation. A horse, which is angry. It is this horse that catches the eye of Tom Smith, a veteran horse trainer employed under Charles Howard, a broken industrialist who has lost his young son. Tom Smith realizes what the horse has been put through to and begins to heal it and make it start believing in itself. Enters Red Pollard, a loser jockey employed under Charles Howard too. The story then moves on to the relationship that Red Pollard and the horse share, the way they start to heal each other and what common things they find between themselves.
Beautifully written and amazingly uplifting!
November 25, 2007
This was, truly, "fast-paced non-fiction." This book galloped along with all the speed of the horse it followed, which I find rare for books that simply relate a true story. Hillenbrand did a fantastic job giving a straightforward account of the history and background of Seabiscuit and the people around him, yet not once did she stoop to sounding like a pedantic authority on the subject. This book had all the tone and pace of great novels I've read, but it was so interesting to keep reminding myself that it actually happened!
If you enjoyed the movie, you will definitely enjoy the book. The movie did a great job capturing what Hillenbrand did, with applaudingly similar style, but it couldn't have captured all the depth and side-stories that the book offered. I was initially worried that I would be forced to superimpose the faces from the movie onto the characters I was reading about, but the deftly-placed pictures in the book helped me get over that quickly.
All in all, a fantastic book. Highly recommended.
If you enjoyed the movie, you will definitely enjoy the book. The movie did a great job capturing what Hillenbrand did, with applaudingly similar style, but it couldn't have captured all the depth and side-stories that the book offered. I was initially worried that I would be forced to superimpose the faces from the movie onto the characters I was reading about, but the deftly-placed pictures in the book helped me get over that quickly.
All in all, a fantastic book. Highly recommended.
December 18, 2010
I've had this on my TBR for ages but never got to it but I'm so glad that I finally did! First - I should note that I have absolutely NO INTEREST in horses or horse racing. In fact, I would say that the idea of a book about horses and horse racing makes me want to roll my eyes out of boredom. And then came along Laura Hillenbrand!!!
It is her writing that really makes this book special - That makes it about more than a horse or a race or a sport. She makes the people and places come alive on each page. She made me CARE about what I was certain that I would never care about! She kept me turning the page late into the night when I really should have gone to sleep.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone that enjoys good, solid writing and wants to be swept away by a fantastic story!
It is her writing that really makes this book special - That makes it about more than a horse or a race or a sport. She makes the people and places come alive on each page. She made me CARE about what I was certain that I would never care about! She kept me turning the page late into the night when I really should have gone to sleep.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone that enjoys good, solid writing and wants to be swept away by a fantastic story!
February 12, 2015
Wonderful book. As a horse racing enthusiast I loved the period detail of the book and it was was written in a much more novel-like style than most historical books. I had seen the movie years ago and now want to go back and watch it again. It is a remarkable story about a remarkable horse and an amazing partnership of men who had faith their efforts could move mountains when it came to Seabiscuit.
February 25, 2015
Growing up in Louisville, Ky and loving the derby reading this was a given. It being so extremely great was a bonus. Re read 2015 enjoyed it even more
October 25, 2019
“In 1938... the year's #1 newsmaker was not FDR, Hitler, or Mussolini. Nor was it Lou Gehrig or Clark Gable. The subject of the most newspaper column inches in 1938 wasn't even a person. It was an undersized, crooked-legged racehorse named Seabiscuit.”
America loves an underdog. Such is the case of Seabiscuit. Yes, he was an amazing athlete. But, more than anything else, he became a favorite because pound-for-pound Seabuscuit may have been the greatest racehorse ever. He was only 15 hands tall, just slightly taller than a pony. Standing next to other great thoroughbreds, Seabiscuit looked like the runt of the litter. Yet he would go on to shatter track records.
Seabiscuit was generally unruly and at one point the owner couldn't find anyone to take the horse off his hands as a gift. He appeared to be both slow and dangerous, hardly the traits one looks for in a racehorse. But Seabiscuit just needed the right trainer and the right jockey. Tom Smith and Red Pollard knew how to understand Seabiscuit, and life-long bonds were established.
Maybe the biggest race ever, and certainly the biggest sporting event for that time, happened in 1938 when two great rivals, Seabiscuit and War Admiral, met at Pimlico for a "match race" between these champions. Over 40 million people, including FDR, tuned in their radio to listen to the race. This event pitted David against Goliath, and the odds were stacked against the smaller horse. It was also a story of East vs West; at that time, everyone thought the "real" races occurred in the east. Seabiscuit raced on the upstart racetracks at Santa Anita (Pasadena) and Del Mar (San Diego). It was a story of old money vs. new money. Seabiscuit would go on to set the track record that day by beating War Admiral, direct descendent of the famed Man o' War, by an incredible four links.
I was surprised how interesting this book turned out to be. Not one to watch horseraces, although I've been known to show up at a party or two to watch the Kentucky Derby, I was taken in by the described "personalities" of these great animals. I learned there actually has to be a marriage of sorts between horse and rider - not just anyone can jump on a fast horse and expect to win. The horse must want to run for the rider, and the rider must encourage the competitive spirits of the horse. Fascinating.
America loves an underdog. Such is the case of Seabiscuit. Yes, he was an amazing athlete. But, more than anything else, he became a favorite because pound-for-pound Seabuscuit may have been the greatest racehorse ever. He was only 15 hands tall, just slightly taller than a pony. Standing next to other great thoroughbreds, Seabiscuit looked like the runt of the litter. Yet he would go on to shatter track records.
Seabiscuit was generally unruly and at one point the owner couldn't find anyone to take the horse off his hands as a gift. He appeared to be both slow and dangerous, hardly the traits one looks for in a racehorse. But Seabiscuit just needed the right trainer and the right jockey. Tom Smith and Red Pollard knew how to understand Seabiscuit, and life-long bonds were established.
Maybe the biggest race ever, and certainly the biggest sporting event for that time, happened in 1938 when two great rivals, Seabiscuit and War Admiral, met at Pimlico for a "match race" between these champions. Over 40 million people, including FDR, tuned in their radio to listen to the race. This event pitted David against Goliath, and the odds were stacked against the smaller horse. It was also a story of East vs West; at that time, everyone thought the "real" races occurred in the east. Seabiscuit raced on the upstart racetracks at Santa Anita (Pasadena) and Del Mar (San Diego). It was a story of old money vs. new money. Seabiscuit would go on to set the track record that day by beating War Admiral, direct descendent of the famed Man o' War, by an incredible four links.
I was surprised how interesting this book turned out to be. Not one to watch horseraces, although I've been known to show up at a party or two to watch the Kentucky Derby, I was taken in by the described "personalities" of these great animals. I learned there actually has to be a marriage of sorts between horse and rider - not just anyone can jump on a fast horse and expect to win. The horse must want to run for the rider, and the rider must encourage the competitive spirits of the horse. Fascinating.
May 30, 2022
Author Laura Hillenbrand's research and storytelling had me loving Seabiscuit's story from beginning to end.
Wonderful narration too!
Wonderful narration too!
April 7, 2012
Just arrived from USA through BM.
Since I absolutely loved Unbroken, I decided to read LH's famous book after have watched the movie based on this book a long time ago.
The main characters, Charles Howard, Red Pollard and Tom Smith are entwined into Seabiscuit's career and the book shows how his life changed their own lives forever.
Even if it's a non-fiction book, Hillenbrand knows how to give a true fictional character to the narrative itself, putting her own heart on it.
I am looking forward for her third book which I hope will come pretty soon.
Since I absolutely loved Unbroken, I decided to read LH's famous book after have watched the movie based on this book a long time ago.
The main characters, Charles Howard, Red Pollard and Tom Smith are entwined into Seabiscuit's career and the book shows how his life changed their own lives forever.
Even if it's a non-fiction book, Hillenbrand knows how to give a true fictional character to the narrative itself, putting her own heart on it.
I am looking forward for her third book which I hope will come pretty soon.
April 5, 2015
This was a VERY interesting and engrossing read. There's lots of information not just about horse racing, but also about the events and times of the 1930's. And Laura Hillenbrand describes the races so well that she had me on the edge of my seat. All the characters are described vividly, and I cared for all of them.
January 15, 2008
okay, so can I admit that I was weeping at the open of this book? I know, it is stupid. I love animals, and horses in particular, way too much. However, this book was opened so powerfully, I don't know if I can blame my love of animals for my tears this time around. Very well written for pleasure reading and captures the fanfare that was really a part of this horse.
I let my grandmother tell me the whole story of how the world was divided as much by the rivalries between fans of Seabiscuit and fans of War Admiral. It was definately the biggest sport on radio at the time. What a nice thing to get to share with her before she passed on the following year!
I let my grandmother tell me the whole story of how the world was divided as much by the rivalries between fans of Seabiscuit and fans of War Admiral. It was definately the biggest sport on radio at the time. What a nice thing to get to share with her before she passed on the following year!
August 25, 2016
Seabiscuit has been sitting on my shelf for years because I never seemed to be in the mood to read a book about horse racing. Finally, trying to clear space, I decided it was now or never. Within the first chapter, I was hooked. The pacing is impeccable, the people (and horses) come to life, and I felt as if I were at the racetrack. The book reads like fiction, but the endnotes attest to its veracity. Now I'm trying to get my husband to read it, but he's never in the mood for a book about horse racing...
After reading Seabiscuit and Unbroken, I will read absolutely anything Hillenbrand writes!
After reading Seabiscuit and Unbroken, I will read absolutely anything Hillenbrand writes!
March 13, 2012
★★★★★ I LOVE this book! I have the full novel in the commemorative pictorial, the DVD, and now the audiobook, wonderfully narrated by Campbell Scott. Ms. Hillenbrand has researched her topic well, but she brings it to the page with insight, humor and an emotional depth that make it additive. You
want
to find out more about these three misfits – excuse me, make that four misfits, including Seabiscuit – and find out how they won the love of a nation in the midst of the Great Depression. There is never anything dull and tedious presented here and it is full of surprises.
June 1, 2020
This was a phenomenal read. In addition to a great ‘sports’ book this was also a fascinating glimpse into California of the 20’s and 30’s and of course how popular horse racing was at that time.
5 stars easy.
5 stars easy.
November 4, 2022
A fun read! Warning there is language and some other adult content. But over all an interesting read about the men behind Seabiscuit and the famous horse himself and a lot of information about horse racing during that time period.
July 13, 2014
Seabiscuit. An American Legend. I think the only reason I even know the horse's name is because of the movie they filmed a few years ago. I'm obviously not a horse-racing fan, right?
I don't even remember why I grabbed this at a library book sale. A friend here on GR must have given it a good review. But I am so glad I read this.
I've gotten much better about reading non-fiction over the past six months, but I was amazed at what a page-turner this was for me. I've been reading non-fiction before bed, thinking that would be a good time to squeeze it in because I wouldn't have to worry too much about getting caught up in the story and staying up all night. Bad move with this book. I was doing the "one more chapter" thing quite a bit.
It was just a perfect mix of an underdog story and excellent writing. Hillenbrand has a gift for putting you right into the action. Not knowing if Seabiscuit was going to win or lose any given race, my stomach would knot up and I would start reading faster as he came out of the gates. I was worried about injuries. I was furious with jockeys whom I thought were cheating. My heart pounded as Seabiscuit came down the home stretch and I read ahead to find out if he pulled it off this time. What the heck has happened to me?!? Where did the woman who thought "Non-fiction is boring" go?
This horse and his team are truly all-American legends. It seems that we love underdog stories and Seabiscuit, owner Charles Howard, trainer Tom Smith, and jockey Red Pollard were all underdogs at some point. Reading about their struggles and triumphs and, yes, even failures, was inspiring. If they can pull off something like this, why can't you or I?
I loved reading about Tom Smith's unending feud with the press. I worried over Pollard, the injury-prone, Shakespeare-quoting jockey. Seabiscuit's quirks amused me to no end--unless he was messing around with another horse as the finish line approached. Then I just wanted to yell at him, "Stop horsing around! Just finish the race!" (Sorry. I couldn't resist.)
Now that I've finished it, I've caught myself spouting off some random Seabiscuit trivia to my husband. "Oh, did you know that Seabiscuit hated to run on mud?" The Belmont Stakes was on tv. The track looked muddy. It seemed relevant. There was more, but I'll keep my own quirks to myself.
The whole match race thing with War Admiral had me a nervous wreck! I just watched the real race on YouTube and, wow! It gave me goosebumps! It was funny to see Seabiscuit's awkward stride after reading so much about it and to know about all the prep work and psychology that went into that race.
I just loved this book, and I can't say enough about it. So before I end up giving you a page-by-page summary and my reactions, just do us both a favor and go read it.
I don't even remember why I grabbed this at a library book sale. A friend here on GR must have given it a good review. But I am so glad I read this.
I've gotten much better about reading non-fiction over the past six months, but I was amazed at what a page-turner this was for me. I've been reading non-fiction before bed, thinking that would be a good time to squeeze it in because I wouldn't have to worry too much about getting caught up in the story and staying up all night. Bad move with this book. I was doing the "one more chapter" thing quite a bit.
It was just a perfect mix of an underdog story and excellent writing. Hillenbrand has a gift for putting you right into the action. Not knowing if Seabiscuit was going to win or lose any given race, my stomach would knot up and I would start reading faster as he came out of the gates. I was worried about injuries. I was furious with jockeys whom I thought were cheating. My heart pounded as Seabiscuit came down the home stretch and I read ahead to find out if he pulled it off this time. What the heck has happened to me?!? Where did the woman who thought "Non-fiction is boring" go?
This horse and his team are truly all-American legends. It seems that we love underdog stories and Seabiscuit, owner Charles Howard, trainer Tom Smith, and jockey Red Pollard were all underdogs at some point. Reading about their struggles and triumphs and, yes, even failures, was inspiring. If they can pull off something like this, why can't you or I?
I loved reading about Tom Smith's unending feud with the press. I worried over Pollard, the injury-prone, Shakespeare-quoting jockey. Seabiscuit's quirks amused me to no end--unless he was messing around with another horse as the finish line approached. Then I just wanted to yell at him, "Stop horsing around! Just finish the race!" (Sorry. I couldn't resist.)
Now that I've finished it, I've caught myself spouting off some random Seabiscuit trivia to my husband. "Oh, did you know that Seabiscuit hated to run on mud?" The Belmont Stakes was on tv. The track looked muddy. It seemed relevant. There was more, but I'll keep my own quirks to myself.
The whole match race thing with War Admiral had me a nervous wreck! I just watched the real race on YouTube and, wow! It gave me goosebumps! It was funny to see Seabiscuit's awkward stride after reading so much about it and to know about all the prep work and psychology that went into that race.
I just loved this book, and I can't say enough about it. So before I end up giving you a page-by-page summary and my reactions, just do us both a favor and go read it.
July 8, 2023
“In 1938... the year's #1 newsmaker was not FDR, Hitler, or Mussolini. Nor was it Lou Gehrig or Clark Gable. The subject of the most newspaper column inches in 1938 wasn't even a person. It was an undersized, crooked-legged racehorse named Seabiscuit.”
I missed the opportunity to read this book when it was initially released and scaling the heights of the NY Times Bestseller list in the early 2000s, but after reading Hillenbrand's other non-fiction bestseller Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption I decided to give this one a shot, and I'm very glad I did. I'm not a fan of horse racing, or even horses really, although I admit I've been to the tracks a few times (Santa Anita, Bay Meadows, Los Alamitos) but despite my lack of knowledge or interest the book quickly sucked me in completely. Hillenbrand's meticulous research of archive material as well as some interviews with first hand participants and observers has revealed the story behind one of the greatest race horses in history as well as the story of those who worked with him every day; owner Charles Howard, who found financial success introducing the automobile to San Francisco in the years following the great earthquake of 1906; Tom Smith, the former cowboy who brought Seabiscuit from obscurity to the pinnacle of the sport; and jockeys Red Pollard and George Woolf who rode Seabiscuit in his greatest races. Hillenbrand brings the world of 1930s horse racing and pre-WWII America to life with a flair that will fascinate even those, like me, who don't know (or care) much about the sport.
“Everyone thinks we found this broken down horse and fixed him. But he fixed us. Every one of us.”
I missed the opportunity to read this book when it was initially released and scaling the heights of the NY Times Bestseller list in the early 2000s, but after reading Hillenbrand's other non-fiction bestseller Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption I decided to give this one a shot, and I'm very glad I did. I'm not a fan of horse racing, or even horses really, although I admit I've been to the tracks a few times (Santa Anita, Bay Meadows, Los Alamitos) but despite my lack of knowledge or interest the book quickly sucked me in completely. Hillenbrand's meticulous research of archive material as well as some interviews with first hand participants and observers has revealed the story behind one of the greatest race horses in history as well as the story of those who worked with him every day; owner Charles Howard, who found financial success introducing the automobile to San Francisco in the years following the great earthquake of 1906; Tom Smith, the former cowboy who brought Seabiscuit from obscurity to the pinnacle of the sport; and jockeys Red Pollard and George Woolf who rode Seabiscuit in his greatest races. Hillenbrand brings the world of 1930s horse racing and pre-WWII America to life with a flair that will fascinate even those, like me, who don't know (or care) much about the sport.
“Everyone thinks we found this broken down horse and fixed him. But he fixed us. Every one of us.”
August 9, 2016
I love horse racing. I do not know why I am so enamored with it and I certainly do not follow it year round, but for the few months of the Triple Crown I cannot get enough. I research the horses, I research the jockeys, I read about previous winners, trainers, owners, anything.
That is a long way to say that I knew I would love this book. There is no way that I wouldn't. What I wasn't prepared for his how much I was completely captivated by Seabiscuit's story.
Seabiscuit was an amazing horse. But, more than that, he was a symbol to American's during the Great Depression that an underdog could overcome all odds to win. His jockey, Red Pollard, was a symbol that a guy with nothing could find his niche and rise to greatness.
Hillenbrand introduces us to these two horse racing icons as well as Seabiscuit's owner, Charles Howard, and trainer, Tom Smith. She beautifully sets the stage with the history of horse racing in California, how each of the main players--including Seabiscuit--ended up at the same place at the same time to form a team, and she takes us through Seabiscuit's racing career.
I know how Seabiscuit's races turned out, I researched them a lot several years ago when the movie with Toby McGuire came out, and yet I was on the edge of my seat for every race described. I literally cried when Seabiscuit didn't win, smiled when he did, and was amazed at his comebacks.
I listened to this on audio and the narrator was very good. I liked that his reading the racing scenes felt like an old-timey radio broadcaster was announcing it.
As much as I loved it, I don't think I would recommend it to people who are not at least interested in horse racing. There was a lot of description of the races and that could easily get redundant even if the non-racing parts of the story were also brilliant.
Excellent choice for this month's tag!
That is a long way to say that I knew I would love this book. There is no way that I wouldn't. What I wasn't prepared for his how much I was completely captivated by Seabiscuit's story.
Seabiscuit was an amazing horse. But, more than that, he was a symbol to American's during the Great Depression that an underdog could overcome all odds to win. His jockey, Red Pollard, was a symbol that a guy with nothing could find his niche and rise to greatness.
Hillenbrand introduces us to these two horse racing icons as well as Seabiscuit's owner, Charles Howard, and trainer, Tom Smith. She beautifully sets the stage with the history of horse racing in California, how each of the main players--including Seabiscuit--ended up at the same place at the same time to form a team, and she takes us through Seabiscuit's racing career.
I know how Seabiscuit's races turned out, I researched them a lot several years ago when the movie with Toby McGuire came out, and yet I was on the edge of my seat for every race described. I literally cried when Seabiscuit didn't win, smiled when he did, and was amazed at his comebacks.
I listened to this on audio and the narrator was very good. I liked that his reading the racing scenes felt like an old-timey radio broadcaster was announcing it.
As much as I loved it, I don't think I would recommend it to people who are not at least interested in horse racing. There was a lot of description of the races and that could easily get redundant even if the non-racing parts of the story were also brilliant.
Excellent choice for this month's tag!
December 28, 2015
I have seen, and loved, the movie based on this book several times, and as I tend to enjoy non-fiction reads during the summer, decided to dive in. I listened to the audiobook which is wonderfully narrated by George Newbern.
This is narrative non-fiction at its best. I loved everything about this story. The characters, both human and horse, are broken but not out. The pacing of the story is excellent, and there were moments that I was on tenterhooks waiting to see what would happen next. Given that I already knew the outlines of the story and how it would end, that is some dang great writing. The book is so much better than the movie, in that it fleshes out the story of the characters, and captures a sense of place and time in America really well. I even learned that The Biscuit and I have some things in common: we both like to eat and take long naps.
The one thing I did miss out on with the audio, are the photos in the book. Well, Google to the rescue. And if you have yet to see it, go now and and watch the video of the matched race between Seabiscuit and War Admiral and see if you don't get choked up.
I listened to this story on long walks, and found my pace picking up each time Seabiscuit was racing. Even if you are not interested in horses, or horse racing, I would highly recommend this one.
This is narrative non-fiction at its best. I loved everything about this story. The characters, both human and horse, are broken but not out. The pacing of the story is excellent, and there were moments that I was on tenterhooks waiting to see what would happen next. Given that I already knew the outlines of the story and how it would end, that is some dang great writing. The book is so much better than the movie, in that it fleshes out the story of the characters, and captures a sense of place and time in America really well. I even learned that The Biscuit and I have some things in common: we both like to eat and take long naps.
The one thing I did miss out on with the audio, are the photos in the book. Well, Google to the rescue. And if you have yet to see it, go now and and watch the video of the matched race between Seabiscuit and War Admiral and see if you don't get choked up.
I listened to this story on long walks, and found my pace picking up each time Seabiscuit was racing. Even if you are not interested in horses, or horse racing, I would highly recommend this one.
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