Old Bones the Wonder Horse

Based on the true story of Exterminator, one of the greatest race horses of all time, Old Bones the Wonder Horse tells its tale from Exterminator's point of view. Beginning with a summary of the lackluster early career of this surprising horse, the reader meets "Old Bones" as he was affectionately known, before his dark-horse Derby win. Soon, though Exterminator's rewards those who retained faith in him, as he begins to win race after race. Coupled with his easy-going manner and personality, his wins rocket him to national stardom for years after he retires from racing. He lived to a ripe old age, and this short but sweet book follows him there. Though Old Bones is a children's book, it is wonderfully well-written and really flushes out the story behind this spectacular race horse. Told from his point of view necessitates literary licenses must be taken, but the framework holds true as Exterminator stunned the world with his first memorable win, at the Derby no less. It's a charming book; young horse lovers will love it for the character of Old Bones, and they'll learn an important part of horse-history to boot.

I read this book about 20 years ago and it made such an impression that I have never forgotten it. I am getting two copies this time - one for me to keep and one to share with my nephew who is 15. This is a fabulous book for both adults and children. It is a story about a horse who was pretty homely looking, with none of the pedigree looks that breeders say make a great horse. He wasn't even given the benefit of great training. But he had such a great heart that he became a phenomenal race horse when he was well past the age that he should have even been able to race, even after he had been put to heavy work as a utility animal. He didn't know that he shouldn't be able to race like a champion especially with all the strikes against him! I highly recommend this TRUE story to adults as well as children.

Before Seabiscuit and the other Kentucky Derby wonders of recent years, there was "Old Bones", actually named Exterminator. Bought for other race horses to practise with, a few people realize his potential and he wins the Kentucky Derby.