Riding in Rhyme: A Humorous Poetic Guide to the Equestrian Arts

The verses in Riding in Rhyme were written over a period of years while John Davies was head instructor/trainer at The Grange Farm Center in London, England, and The St. James Equestrian Facility in Chicago, Illinois. The verses are intended to be humorous and easily remembered, practical lessons, written basically for children, teenagers, and young adult students. They include actual lessons in horsemanship, stable management, and certain personal experiences derived from self-participation in equestrian activities. Serious young riders should keep this book close at hand as a simple reference while they progress in ability. The accompanying illustrations reinforce the enjoyment and encourage learning. A humorous Poetic Guide to the Equestrian Arts, Riding and rhyme it could be said Together form a rhythmic tread So within these pages it is my intention To describe the equine and equitation. Not by the usual methods you'll find But by planting a rhythm within your mind For rhythm is needed and never brute force When you are learning to ride a horse. So many people have so little time Or cannot be bothered, so maybe a rhyme Will help them remember or help them to know All about horses and what makes them go And how they regard us, so that in the end They will know how it feels with a horse as a friend.