“The Man Who Listens to Horses” Book Review
Have you ever seen the popular television show “The Dog Whisperer”? It highlights a man who loves dogs, and has a unique ability to communicate with them, and train them as well. The book “The Man Who Listens to Horses” offers a similar story, about a man who is able to train and communicate with horses. Written by Monty Roberts, it showcases the internal workings of a horse’s mind. In this article I will be offering my humble opinion on this remarkable book, and offer what I think are some of the highlights that I think other readers might enjoy.Monty Roberts has a story to tell; not only of himself, but of the horses he loves so much. Monty grew up in an abusive household, and his father was abusive not only to him, but to his horses as well. As Monty grew older he started to formulate a different viewpoint. There must be a better way to communicate with the horses that he loves so much, and he was determined to find out what it was.The “join-up” technique is the author’s technique to break and train horses. The book goes into great detail on the process, but here it is in a nutshell. You need a round pen and an unbroken horse to start. The handler will stand in the middle of the pen in a very authoritative and imposing way, while the horse is encouraged to run around the pen in attempts to get away. During the process the handler will be looking for signs that the horse wishes to communicate with him. These three signs are:The horse will turn his closest ear to the handler towards him/her.The horse will start to chew and lick.The horse will lower his head near to the ground as he runs around the pen.When the handler is assured that the horse wishes to communicate, he/she will turn his back and start to gradually move away. The horse will then come closer to the handler, and permit the handler to touch him. Now that contact has been established, the saddling, bridling, mounting, and riding process can begin.The book offers more information than the “join-up” technique mind you. It takes us on a journey as we learn of Roberts’ learning stages, and the good and the bad that have brought him to where he is today. Some of the highlights are:-His successful childhood riding career-The author’s encounters with his father-The development of his Thoroughbred racehorse facility-The time he met Queen Elizabeth II of England-How the “join-up” technique was used on wild deer-Mustang horses and the author’s experiences with them-Three of his favorite horses: Brownie, Johnny Tivio, and DuallyDo you love horses? If so, you will love this book on a humane way to communicate with them and train them as well. Be sure to check it out, read it over, and let the information sink into your mind.
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