3.88
"Horse Heaven" by Jane Smiley is a captivating and engaging novel that explores the world of horse racing and the people who are passionate about it. Smiley, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, brings her signature style of rich character development and vivid description to this story, which follows a cast of characters whose lives are intertwined through their love of horses. The novel is set in California and follows a group of trainers, jockeys, and owners as they navigate the high-stakes world of horse racing. At the center of the story is the enigmatic and talented racehorse, Judith, who is owned by the wealthy and eccentric Haroldacer. Judith's potential for greatness brings together a diverse group of people, each with their own motivations and desires. Smiley's writing is both elegant and accessible, making "Horse Heaven" a pleasure to read. She brings the world of horse racing to life with her detailed descriptions of the horses, the tracks, and the races. At the same time, she delves deep into the minds and hearts of her characters, revealing their hopes, fears, and secrets. One of the strengths of "Horse Heaven" is the way Smiley explores the complex relationships between the characters. From the intense rivalry between trainers to the deep bonds between horses and their owners, the novel is filled with intriguing and nuanced relationships that add depth and richness to the story. Overall, "Horse Heaven" is a compelling and engaging novel that will appeal to anyone who loves horses or enjoys a well-crafted story. Smiley's vivid writing and complex characters make this book a standout in the world of contemporary fiction. Whether you're a seasoned horse racing fan or a newcomer to the sport, "Horse Heaven" is a must-read that will transport you to a world of excitement, passion, and drama...
Marilynne Robinson
Gilead
Like 'Horse Heaven', 'Gilead' is a novel that delves deep into the thoughts and emotions of its characters. In this case, the story is told through the letters of an aging minister reflecting on his life and imparting wisdom to his young son. Both books explore the themes of family, love, and the passage of time, albeit in different settings.
Learn MoreChad Harbach
The Art of Fielding
Fans of 'Horse Heaven' will enjoy 'The Art of Fielding' for its rich character development and exploration of the world of baseball. Both books delve into the intricacies of the human experience and the ways in which our passions and pursuits shape our lives.
Learn MoreBarbara Kingsolver
The Poisonwood Bible
Like 'Horse Heaven', 'The Poisonwood Bible' is a novel that explores the complexities of family dynamics and the impact of external forces on our lives. While 'Horse Heaven' focuses on the world of horse racing, 'The Poisonwood Bible' takes place in the Congo and follows a missionary family in the midst of political upheaval.
Learn MoreJane Smiley
A Thousand Acres
If you loved 'Horse Heaven' for its exploration of family dynamics and the Midwestern setting, 'A Thousand Acres' is a great choice. This novel is a modern retelling of 'King Lear' set on an Iowa farm, and it delves deep into the complex relationships between siblings and parents.
Learn MoreNicholas Evans
The Horse Whisperer
Fans of 'Horse Heaven' will enjoy 'The Horse Whisperer' for its exploration of the deep bond between humans and horses. Both books delve into the world of horse training and the ways in which our relationships with animals can shape our lives.
Learn MoreDavid Wroblewski
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle
Like 'Horse Heaven', 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle' is a novel that explores the world of animals and the ways in which they shape our lives. This novel is a reimagining of 'Hamlet' set on a Wisconsin farm, and it delves deep into the complex relationships between humans and dogs.
Learn MoreEdward P. Jones
The Known World
For readers who enjoyed 'Horse Heaven' for its exploration of complex family dynamics and the impact of external forces on our lives, 'The Known World' is a great choice. This novel takes place in the antebellum South and explores the world of slave ownership and the ways in which it shapes the lives of all involved.
Learn MoreSue Monk Kidd
The Secret Life of Bees
Like 'Horse Heaven', 'The Secret Life of Bees' is a novel that explores the world of animals and the ways in which they shape our lives. This novel takes place in South Carolina and follows a young girl who escapes her abusive home and finds solace in a community of beekeepers.
Learn MoreBarbara Kingsolver
The Lacuna
Fans of 'Horse Heaven' will enjoy 'The Lacuna' for its rich character development and exploration of the world of art and politics. Both books delve into the intricacies of the human experience and the ways in which our passions and pursuits shape our lives, albeit in different settings.
Learn More