SMILEY, Jane. A year at the races; reflections on horses, humans, love, money, and luck. Random House, Anchor. 287p. illus. bibliog. c2004. 1-4000-317-9. $13.95. SA

For people whose knowledge of horses and horse racing comes primarily from reading Marguerite Henry's books as a child and seeing the movie Seabiscuit twice, A Year at the Races is an education. Author Jane Smiley's love for horses goes beyond any standard emotion; her fascination borders on addiction. This attribute combined with her gift for writing makes for an excellent and informative book. Although it sets out to cover a year of the ups and downs of two of her own racehorses, Waterwheel and Wowie, Smiley easily veers off into the history and lore of racing, as well as many horse anecdotes, and also provides an introduction to racing's extensive and unique vocabulary.

"To me, the racetrack is an inherently amazing place, rich in language and personality, sometimes beautiful and sometimes sordid, always unpredictable. Racing is a business, an art, an athletic context, a moral and a spiritual test." (p.8) Smiley defends horse sports and admits she sees horses "as individuals, with memories and intentions and desires, disabilities and talents ..." (p.271). What the reader decides on the issue may be equally individual, but either way, A Year at the Races gives much to consider. Katherine Gillen, Libn., Luke AFB Lib., AZ

S--Recommended for senior high school students.

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