Fragile Eden: A Ride Through New Zealand

This incredibl, informative and delightful ride on horseback through the country of New Zealand (a far away place many of us will never be able to visit in person) is one of my favorite books. Imagine leisurely exploring an entire country on horseback!There are several pictures in brilliant color depicting the diverse people, the spectacular scenery including magnificent snow capped mountains and swift large rivers, and many black and white pictures as well, enabling us to join in the ride. Robin and Louella Hanbury-Tenison explored this magical country on horseback together and vividly describe their adventures, sharing them with readers who love true and exciting accounts. Proceeds from their expedition raised money for charity entitled Riding for the Disabled. They are an English couple with environmental concerns as well. This journey is one of many as they explored other parts of the world in other books.This book also provides insights into the economic and environmental problems in New Zealand. You will learn a great deal of the country's history.Imagine riding horses up high mountain peaks covered with snow and then descending to the hot dry valley floors, seeing native animals up close, talking with shepherds and owners of the huge sheep farms, sleeping in various kinds of weather both outside and sometimes inside primitive huts, grazing horses, basking in lush natural surroundings in what they call "the most beautiful country in the world"! As you read this highly descriptive book, you can almost smell that sharp fresh air after a rain and see the colorful rainbows, all the while riding in a comfortable saddle on eager healthy horses. The entire country is well described in every way possible.Want to take a journey to a special land on horseback? For a true adventure story you will not forget, read this book and others written by Robin Hanbury-Tenison, an explorer extraordinare!