Seabiscuit & the World of Horse Racing

Seabiscuit

Seabiscuit, an underdog racehorse, captured America’s imagination during the 1930s. Learn all about his legend and the world of horse racing in these books and film.

Seabiscuit: An American Legend
By Laura Hillenbrand
In this New York Times bestseller, Hillenbrand unfolds the spellbinding story of the racehorse Seabiscuit in a riveting tale of grit, grace, luck, and an underdog's stubborn determination. Seabiscuit was one of the most electrifying and popular attractions in sports history and one of the biggest newsmakers in the world in 1938. But his success was a surprise to the racing establishment, which had written off the crooked-legged racehorse with the sad tail.

Come On Seabiscuit!
By Ralph Moody; illustrated by Robert Riger
Originally published in 1963, this classic book for kids recounts the thrilling tale of a plucky horse who refused to quit, a down-on-his-luck jockey who didn't let horrendous accidents keep him out of the saddle, and a taciturn trainer who brought out the best in both.

They're Off!: Horse Racing at Saratoga
By Edward Hotaling
Here is the story of how America's first national resort gave birth to, then nurtured, its first national sport, and introduced the country to a parade of champions and their spectacular supporting characters. To experience this adventure is to see why the Saratoga Race Course, America's oldest major sports facility remains one of its most beloved and most successful. They're Off! is as much a social history as it is sports history.

Racing Through the Century book jacket

Racing Through the Century: The Story of Thoroughbred Racing in America
By Mary Simon
Filled with dramatic historical photos capturing some of the greatest racing moments, this book will catapult readers into the fast-paced and exciting world of racing.

Horse Racing: The Golden Age of the Track
Edited by Eric Rachlis and Blossom Lefcourt
This book depicts horse racing from the 1930s-60s with over 150 photos taken by high-society photographer Bert Morgan and an introduction by sportswriter Bill Barich.

The Jockey Club's Illustrated History of Thoroughbred Racing in America
By Edward L. Bowen
This book has over 200 illustrations depicting the history of thoroughbred racing over the past 100 years.

The Race for the Triple Crown book jacket

The Race for the Triple Crown: Horses, High Stakes, and Eternal Hope
By Joe Drape
Rich in detail and crackling with wit, The Race for the Triple Crown is a personal narrative that captures the affecting stories of the Thoroughbred racing world. From ostentatious owners, to radiant unrivaled horses, to young trainers trying to make a name for themselves, everyone has a gripping story, and all are in search of the sport's Holy Grail.

Stud: Adventures in Breeding
By Kevin Conley
Taking readers into the strange and seductive world of horse breeding, Conley looks at intimate acts in idyllic settings and the billion-dollar business behind them.

Wild Ride: The Rise and Tragic Fall of Calumet Farm, Inc., America's Premier Racing Dynasty
By Ann Hagedorn Auerbach
In its heyday, Calumet Farm dominated the sport of kings, but during the 1980s, the high-stakes business that had developed around its blueblood roots began to unravel.

Seabiscuit (2003, DVD)
Nominated for seven Academy Awards, this drama depicts the true story of a legendary race horse that overcame all the odds to win the Triple Crown. The owner, trainer, and jockey were all underdogs that shined at a moment when our country needed it the most.

Book descriptions provided by BookLetters.