What a Ride.
I don’t think I’ve ever reviewed a biography before, let alone one about a horse, but after a brief resistance to reading Geraldine Brooks’ latest work, simply titled Horse, I decided I could not hold off any longer. I thought I give it a try and was prepared to abandon it at the first hurdle.
The heart of the novel combined with historical fact, lies in the bond between Jarret, an enslaved Black groom in 1850s Kentucky, and the young colt, soon to be incredibly famous, Lexington. Their relationship is deeply moving, set against the backdrop of a nation on the brink of civil war. Jarret’s chapters are rich with historical detail and emotional depth, portraying the brutality of slavery and the resilience of those who endured it.
Parallel to this is a modern-day storyline featuring Jess, an Australian scientist at the Smithsonian, and Theo, a Nigerian-American art historian. Their discovery of Lexington’s skeleton and a discarded painting leads them to uncover Jarret’s forgotten story.
The novel raises important questions about racial injustice, both past and present, without ever feeling preachy. I’ve been a follower of Brooks’ for years, always surprised at her next theme. She never disappoints and always delights.
Whether you’re drawn to history, horses, or human resilience, Horse is a deeply satisfying read that lingers long after the final page.
Book: Horse
Author: Geraldine Brooks
Published: June 14, 2022 by Viking
