#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • The dramatic and inspiring story of a man and his horse, an unlikely duo whose rise to stardom in the sport of show jumping captivated the nation Harry de Leyer first saw the horse he would name Snowman on a truck bound for the slaughterhouse. The recent Dutch immigrant recognized the spark in the eye of the beaten-up nag and bought him for eighty dollars. On … eighty dollars. On Harry’s modest farm on Long Island, he ultimately taught Snowman how to fly. Here is the dramatic and inspiring rise to stardom of an unlikely duo. One show at a time, against extraordinary odds and some of the most expensive thoroughbreds alive, the pair climbed to the very top of the sport of show jumping. Their story captured the heart of Cold War–era America—a story of unstoppable hope, inconceivable dreams, and the chance to have it all. They were the longest of all longshots—and their win was the stuff of legend.
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I loved this book!
There’s something irresistible about an underdog story. Especially when it’s true.
My daughter is a Grand Prix Equestrian so this book held particular interest for me. It is a wonderfully inspirational story of a horse and rider/owner that against all odds rise to the top in the stratified world of show jumping to become one of the greats. Anyone with a love of horses will appreciate learning about the history and rise of show …
This is the true story of a horse that was basically thrown away and rescued to become a world champion
This non-fiction account of the “Galloping Grandpa” and Snowman, the horse he bought on it’s way to a dog food cannery for the price the ‘killers’ would have paid for him, is heart warming. It also shows that talent can be found in unexpected beings. The hard luck plow horse turned out to be a champion show jumper at the highest levels of …
ENGROSSING READ
Heartwarming story about the loyalty between a horse and his savior.
After reading The Perfect Horse, I was excited to read another horse story by the same author. While the story was very interesting, unfortunately the telling of the tale was lacking. It got bogged down in so many historical details about the era that honestly just weren’t necessary. Some chapters read like a story – and these were great to read- …
After reading Ruby by Cynthia Bond, I needed something more light-hearted. This book was perfect, because I love horses and loved learning about Snowman, a plow horse who became national jumping champion. What an inspiration he and his owner were to millions of Americans in the 1950s! Journalistically written. Well done.
Love horses and loved the story of this rescue horse.
Simply put, read a historical novel about an immigrant who inspired an entire nation. I am NOT horse person, but I absolutely would read this again.
Really enjoyed it
I grew up during this time, but don’t remember the story of Snowman. It is a powerful story of survival and accomplishment. This story should reinforce what most of us know that animals are much smarter than some give them credit for.
One of the great underdog stories of all time. If it were a novel you wouldn’t belive it. From Glue factory to Champion.
Loved this book- a feel good read.
A wonderful story of an unimpressive looking horse who has impressive ability, and the man who saw and cultivated his talents.
An engaging true tale about an unlikely champion with heart. Well written and a satisfying read.
This is an amazing and fascinating true story. It helps us to see that animals
have emotions and do appreciate our saving them. It also shows us that people can survive through much more than we think we can.
If you ever loved an animal, you will find this book touching your heart. Author tells you a lot about horses and the horsey set that you probably never knew. She has the gift!
One of the best books I read last year!