Arabians are My Favorite! (My Favorite Horses)

By: Elaine Landau
Publisher: Lerner Publishing Group
Publication Date: February 2012
ISBN: 978-0761349389
Reviewed by: Deb Fowler
Review Date: February 16, 2012

If you'd gladly swap your cat for an Arabian horse, chances are you just might have to dream about owning one for a long time. No doubt the Arabian is a marvelous horse with personality plus, but they do take up a bit more space than a cat and need a lot more care. They are a distinctive looking breed that is "known for its beauty and class." You'll be able to read all about their physical characteristics, but one in particular that stands out (and up) is that high flying tail. The Arabian "stands from about fourteen to fifteen hands" tall. In "Horsey Math" fourteen hands equates to fifty-six inches. Can you figure out how many "hands" you are?

The Arabian is a "light-breed" horse weighing under a thousand pounds. They come in an assortment of colors, some with markings, but all of them have black skin to protect them from getting sunburned. Arabians are an easygoing breed and "some call Arabians the perfect companion horse." In a two-page centerfold, you'll get to see a photograph of one and will be able to learn about its parts. You can probably point to its tail, but how about its chestnut? In this book you'll also learn about the history of the breed, what they were once used for, what it takes to care for an Arabian, the need to care for its tack, different riding styles, how they move, and you'll learn many other interesting things about the amazing Arabian.

Of course the author subtly stresses that having an Arabian might just be a dream and that perhaps having a cat might have to suffice. There are several suggestions as to how a horse crazy youngster can enjoy horses without actually having to own one, including creating a scrapbook. The book is generously illustrated with full color photographs, ancient art reproductions, and contains numerous informative sidebars. For example, one discusses Buffalo Bill Cody's love of the breed and his horse, Muson. In the back of the book is an index, a glossary, and additional recommended book and website resources to explore.

Quill says: This is a fun, fascinating overview of Arabian horses for the young horse lover.