The Hearts of Horses
by Molly Gloss

    THE HEARTS OF HORSES by Molly Gloss
    Category:  Historical
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 9+
    Release Date:  12/8/08
    Publisher:  Mariner Books
    Reviewed by:  LadyJay
    Rating:  5 Stars


    It is the winter of 1917, and the United States has finally aligned itself with the allies of World War I.  Times are
    hard.  Young men are being shipped overseas at an alarming rate.  Ranchers and farmers are scrambling to find
    adequate help.  They must settle for older hired hands and young women looking for work.  

    Nineteen-year-old Martha Lessen has left her family in search of such work; specifically, horses that need
    “gentling."  She makes her way to Eastern Oregon territory and sets up a circle with several horses that need
    breaking.  During her stay in Elwha County, Martha becomes a part of the ranchers and farmers lives.  She learns
    their secrets and listens to their stories.  The female broncobuster who wished only to tame horses becomes a part
    of their community.
            
    THE HEARTS OF HORSES has a quiet profoundness about it.  Readers will not find anything flashy about this
    story, and in this time of thirty-second sound bytes and fast-food media, that sounds just fine.  Gloss’ main
    character is a worthy protagonist.  A sturdily built young woman who has dreamed of the places mentioned in
    Western romance novels, she only wishes to roam free amongst her horses.  It is a beautiful, poignant story that
    many people will enjoy reading.  

    Horse lovers will be especially drawn to the novel because of the care that Gloss takes while describing each animal
    and his/her temperament.  Take the time to read this tale of a female horse whisperer – it will not disappoint.