Nonfiction Monday

A fascinating look at the legendary racehorse Rachel Alexandra – Known to her fans as Alexandra The Great. Deb Aronson immerses readers in the world of thoroughbred horse racing with an in-depth look at the racing super star who taught audiences what it means to "Run like a girl." 

Rejected by her mother and labeled an “Ugly Duckling” Rachel Alexandra was scheduled for a quick sale, but a medical problem caused by growing too fast prevented the transaction from going through and her owner, Dolph Morrison, ended up sending her to his trainer. The rest, as they say, is history. Rachel proved herself smart and strong as she ran away with win after win. But despite her remarkable success, Dolph refused to allow her to compete against the boys. That decision came when Jess Jackson made Dolph an offer he couldn’t refuse and gave Rachel her chance. Rachel became the first filly in 85 years to win the Preakness and went on to become the first filly to ever win the Woodward – crowning her career by being named 2009 Horse of the Year.

Aronson’s carefully researched work is filled with exacting details and numerous quotes from owners, trainers, jockeys and others. She gives readers a healthy education about the day-to-day world of breeding farms, training barns, and life in the shed rows behind the tracks. The fact-filled text is balanced by a lively narrative that will leave the heart pumping in time with the hoof beats pounding down the final stretch.

Additional information is available at the end of the book with: Rachel’s Record-Making Runs, A Glossary of terms highlighted in the story, Notes citing the author’s sources for quotes, a Bibliography, and Index.