By Van Hargis
Trafalgar Square Books announces the release of The Horse Is My Teacher by Van Hargis, an engaging collection of stories from a rural working life.
Hargis grew up in the saddle on an East Texas ranch, training his first horse at age 12, then making a living starting cutting and reining colts, many of which went on to become champions. Naturally outgoing, Hargis shared stories and lessons from his work with horses early on. Here, in his first book, he reaches out to readers with a collection of down-to-earth, highly relatable tales. Readers absorb fundamental knowledge of horses skillfully embedded in genuine anecdotes straight off the ranch, including:
- How Grandma’s cross-stitch laid the groundwork for more patience when starting colts and trailer-loading.
- How a daughter’s temper tantrum helped perfect timing of the release of pressure.
- How the way Mom worked the gate when sorting cattle taught you to look for what the horse really wanted to achieve.
- How playing on championship football teams provided the understanding of true partnership.
With easy-to-remember quotes and practical tools that can be used in the arena or on the trail, by any rider, The Horse Is My Teacher imparts the principles of great horsemanship while also inspiring us to apply those same principles to further our own personal growth.
The book runs 208 pages, features 50 color and black-and-white images, and is sure to engage any rider, as well as teach great lessons along the way. Purchase the book at horseandriderbooks.com.
See this article in the January/February 2023 online edition:
January/February 2023
The Colorado Horse Source is an independently owned and operated print and online magazine for horse owners and enthusiasts of all breeds and disciplines in Colorado and surrounding area. Our contemporary editorial columns are predominantly written by experts in the region, covering the care, training, keeping and enjoyment of horses, with an eye to the specific concerns in our region.