By Dr. Stephen Peters & Martin Black

What happens when you pair up one of America’s most talented horsemen with a neuroscientist who is an expert on the structure and working of the equine brain?  You get a book that is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand horses better. This is a true source of real information, validated by science, written to help anyone who loves these wonderful animals that share our lives. 

If you’re looking for “best practices” in horse training, this is it: empirical evidence proven to work in actual practice, not just theory.

Because this is primarily a science book, I thought it might be a text book over my head, but not at all.  Dr Stephen Peters’ chapters about how the horse’s brain works are clearly written.  Martin Black’s contributions discuss real life situations gleaned from his decades of hands on experience starting hundreds of horses.  Numerous photographs contribute to the content and there is a glossary to help with the scientific terminology.

I don’t teach horseback riding, but I really admire those that do, especially those who teach beginning riding, as a good start in anything is so important. Being good at something is one thing; being able to teach that skill to others requires a special gift, and Gincy Self Bucklin was blessed with that gift. Her book “The Gentle Art of Horseback Riding” is a must have for riders at all stages and abilities, as well as a textbook quality reference for riding instructors.
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Let me start out my review by noting that Gincy Bucklin is my aunt, but I don’t think this makes me biased – it makes me lucky!  And I can personally guarantee that not only is she a top notch horsewoman, she genuinely wants people to be successful and happy with their horses, and for horses to be successful and happy with their riders.
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Right from the beginning in the preface, Gincy makes sure that riders understand that unlike sports that use balls and other equipment,  a horse is not an inanimate object – our errors as riders can damage a horse.  Riding done well must be comfortable for both horse and rider, and the horse has a contribution to make as a teacher.

Click on Read More below the photo to learn more.