Play Book Tag discussion

I enjoyed this novel. It’s told from several POV, including a Smithsonian scientist who reconstructs animal skeletons for museums (Jess), an intellectual Nigerian-American art historian (Theo), a 19th century enslaved African American horse trainer (Jarrett), a 19th century painter of horses (Thomas), and a couple of other minor players. Jess and Theo were fictitious, while Jarrett and Thomas were real people, although extremely little is known about Jarrett. These characters, different in status, profession, and the time they lived, are all tied together through the famous racehorse, Lexington. I’m ignorant about horses and racing so I learned a lot, especially about how horse racing figured in the antebellum South. The author created a compelling tale by weaving well-researched history of that southern racing world with a modern story about paintings of the horse. With the possible exception of Thomas’s character, I think she was careful not to make up too much detail about the real people in the book. (Over-invention is a problem I have with some authors of historical fiction.) Her author’s notes are excellent and make clear what she fabricated and what is known. I thought the plotting was creative and an interesting way to tie past events to the present. I was taken aback by a major “twist” in the modern story, but on reflection, I believe it added to the deeper moral themes of the book. I’ve enjoyed several other books by Geraldine Brooks and I respect the research she puts into them. I’m glad there are several more I have to look forward to. I’m rounding up to five because I learned so much new.

I just read this one too and also gave it 5 stars. Glad you enjoyed it

Susan - you said on another comment that you were being careful what you read. Are you ok? Do I need to pray especially for something for you? I love this author but the idea of reading a book focused on a horse or horse racing does not excite me - I know it will be more than about a horse - but just not on my radar yet. Everyone gives it good ratings. Thanks for the review. Take care of you. peace, janz

Peacejanz wrote: "Susan - you said on another comment that you were being careful what you read. Are you ok? Do I need to pray especially for something for you? I love this author but the idea of reading a book focu..."

Janz, I'm fairly sure this would interest you, as it is about so much more than horses and I think it fits into your wheelhouse of interests.

Peacejanz wrote: "Susan - you said on another comment that you were being careful what you read. Are you ok? Do I need to pray especially for something for you? I love this author but the idea of reading a book focu..."

Oh, you're so kind. Thank you. I just try not to nurture a latent disillusionment with humanity, so think twice before reading some books or news stories. Regarding Horse, as noted below, it's about far more than horse racing.