THE BLOOD BAY COLT

by Walter Farley ‧ RELEASE DATE: Aug. 1, 1950

Farley fans will not be disappointed although this is almost too concentrated in technical details about the mysteries of harness racing for the general market. This story of a trotter and the boy who handled him has the sense of reality, mature development and communicative love of horses which has gained this author his large, articulate following. Tom Messinger, still in school but looking forward to a career on the trotting track, persuades veteran racer Jimmy Creech not to sell his fine mare Queen, who is in foal. Because of the boy's genuine ""feel"" for horses, Jimmy allows Tom to board Queen at his uncle's farm and supervise the birth of the foal. In spite of Jimmy's failing health and fortunes and his smoldering bitterness and blind prejudice against young riders and new track methods, Tom patiently trains the beautiful blood bay colt. Under Jimmy's tutelage, Tom learns driving skills as well as general horse care and training. Of course there is the big race with everything at stake -- money for Jimmy's operation, the colt's racing reputation, and the fortunes of Tom.

Pub Date: Aug. 1, 1950

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Random House

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 1, 1950

Categories: FICTION