Life on a Horse Farm

Children's Literature

A young girl narrates this story of the daily life events on a farm where racehorses are raised. Important terms are introduced throughout the text—mare, stallion, breed, foal, yearling, paddocks and so forth. The parts of a horse's body are labeled on a drawing;this illustration is placed adjacent to a photograph of a horse for comparison. A very forthright section about breeding tells the whole story and may be a little mature for young readers. The training of a racehorse begins soon after birth, and the process is explained in great detail. The basics of stall cleaning, hoof care, grooming and feeding are also covered. Part of the "Life on a Farm" series. 2002, Carolrhoda Books, $23.93. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer:Carol Lynch

School Library Journal

Gr 2-4-This attractive book is narrated by Sarah Mills, whose family raises racehorses. Her father manages Willow Tree Farm, overseeing the daily operations and the training of the colts, while Sarah, her brother, and mother help out with other tasks. After a brief introduction, Wolfman's matter-of-fact text explains that the farm stables mares for clients and breeds them with the hope of producing fine racehorses. A mare in heat, breeding, and birth are discussed in a straightforward manner, but without much detail. Weaning, daily care, training, and gelding are also covered. Most of the full-color photographs are of high quality (a couple are a bit grainy) and their captions add interest and information. The format is inviting. The book concludes with a page of fun facts. Reminiscent of earlier Cheryl Bellville titles, this one is sure to be enjoyed by horse lovers.-Eldon Younce, Harper Elementary School, KS Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.