The Horsebreakers - Tapa dura

This fascinating book details the work of whisperers, gentlers, rough-riders, charlatans and showmen over many centuries together with the methods of present-day masters, like Monty Roberts, whose studied approach to horse psychology and communication have questioned the traditions of the last few thousand years and brought a new understanding to the art of breaking horses. The book traces man's involvement with the domestication and training of the horse from its origins in South Turkestan around 8,000 years ago to the present day. It examines the evolution of horse breaking methods across a diversity of cultures and looks at the folklore, mythology and mysticism that built up around those with the knowledge and ability to tame and handle this most revered of animals.

Clive Richardson has been involved with horses for most of his life. He has competed successfully in a wide range of equestrian disciplines in the United Kingdom, France and America, and has judged horses extensively on both sides of the Atlantic and on the Continent. His numerous previous publications include The Fell Pony, The Hackney (both for Allen's Breed Series), The History and Development of the Horse-drawn Vehicle, An Instructional Guide to Driving Singles and Pairs, as well as over 150 articles for various magazines and journals.