Seabiscuit: An American Legend by Laura Hillenbrand

Seabiscuit is not just a horse, not in the hands of the author, Laura Hillenbrand, who manages to capture the despair of the depression era, and how horse racing and Seabiscuit became one of the main diversions for the public from their troubles. Seabiscuit, frequently an underdog, became a symbol of determination and heart for the masses, a symbol embodying a never-give-up attitude.

But the book is about more than Seabiscuit. Readers also learn about the ups and downs of the men who surrounded this amazing animal. About Charles Howard and his rags to riches story from when he was simply a bicycle mechanic who eventually became an automobile magnate. About Red Pollard, separated from his family at a young age, wandering the states trying to make money to send home from his boxing and racing horses. And about Tom Smith, an old-fashioned cowboy turned trainer, whose unconventional training methods worked wonders on an unconventional horse.

Hillenbrand manages to keep a breathtaking pace throughout the book, and the amount of research she has conducted is evident in the details. The story is so engaging and exciting; it is easy to mistake this tale for fiction. This is a fantastic read for those who are new to nonfiction but will also raise the bar for veteran nonfiction readers. Additionally, there are documentaries and a feature film based on the book, all titled Seabiscuit.