White Stallion of Lipizza

I cannot remember when I first read this book, probably before my school library in grade 5-6 offered Mary Stewart's Airs Above the Ground, which I also read with excitement and also loved. I still love this book over 50 years later. Profusely illustrated throughout, it gives a full account of the history and training of Lipizzaner horses without ever lapsing into didacticism. Not only did it give me an interest in dressage and haute ecole, it also imparted a strong desire to read Xenophon's Art of Horsemanship. Xenonphon's book, an important part of the White Stallion story, was out of print in the 1960s, it was out of print when my kids wanted to read it in the 1990s, but is at last available from Dover reprints!

I saw "The Miracle of the White Stallions" when I was nine years old, precisely at the age when certain girls start to become fascinated with horses. "Horse Crazy" was a very popular state of mind for an amazing number of us. Those who are lucky enough to live in the country may get the chance to own a horse of their own, others sometimes get to have lessons. City dwellers, unfortunately, very rarely get that chance unless their parents are rich.

A school teacher's daughter won't fit into any of the lucky categories. And, I was a teacher's daughter. So, somewhere in my soul, I have carried my "horse crazy" gene, wishing that I could have my own relationship with one of these large, maddeningly wonderful critters.

"White Stallion of show more Lipizza" is the story of a young baker boy who lives in Vienna. As he makes his deliveries each morning, he pauses long enough to watch the stallions of the Spanish Riding School walk with their keepers into the practice ring. Each day, his love for these mysterious, beautiful white horses, until he decides he wants to always be in their presence.

This is the perfect book for a girl (or woman) who has similar desires. Margeurite Henry presents a very true-to-life account of what happens at the Riding School. Will Hans have his chance to work with the Lipizzaners? Or will he go on to follow his father in the bakery business? show less

As a child, and as an adult too actually, I loved horse stories. Marguerite Henry writes an easy but enjoyable horse story. Her stories feel very true to the time and setting and are enjoyable to read.

I read this book aloud to my daughters.

We loved this book! My elder daughter especially loves horses and riding, so she was particularly interested in the details that Henry provided with regards to training of both the horses and riders.

This inspirational book teaches that dreams can come true through hard work and perseverance. Hans did, at times, feel discouraged but he persisted. We should all work hard to attain our goals, which is a good value for young children to learn.

MY RATING: 4 stars!

I can't think of a better introduction to dressage and haute ecole. I was in elementary school when I first read this book and have gone back to it many times since. It fostered a passion for riding and confidence when the lessons got tough. All of Marguerite Henry's books are treasures, but I have an especially soft spot for this one.

One of my favorite horse books of all time. I have always been fascinated with dressage and haute ecole, and it probably comes from this book.

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