Horseback Riding for Fun!

Children's Literature

This book is designed for the reader who is interested in, or has just started, taking riding lessons. Following general tips on horse behavior, gear, and grooming, the book dives into a fairly technical discussion of the elements of good horseback riding. These detailed sections may be helpful reinforcement for the young person actually learning to ride, but other readers may just get lost. The book's helpful last section covers various competition and exhibition opportunities for riders of all skill levels. The text is illustrated with color photographs of young riders on horseback as well as with computer graphics demonstrating various techniques. Both boys and girls are shown actively participating in the sport. A timeline and fun facts are appended, as are two glossaries, one for the extensive jargon specific to riding and one for more general vocabulary. The suggestions for further reading and the FactHound online bibliography will lead readers to other sources of information on the subject. Part of the "Activities for Fun" series about extracurricular activities. 2004, Compass Point Books, Ages 7 to 12.
—Norah Piehl