Editor’s pick:

Horse Brain, Human Brain

The Neuroscience of Horsemanship

Janet L. Jones, Trafalgar Square Books

Ever wondered why a horse walks past a wheelbarrow without a glance one day and gives it a wide berth the next? Cognitive scientist and horsewoman Janet L. Jones explores how horses see, hear and learn, and why they don’t always make sense of a situation the way we do.

Drawing on everyday examples from riding and handling, she shows how a better understanding of both brains can make us clearer, kinder horsepeople. A thoughtful gift for anyone who has ever asked, “What was my horse thinking?”

JumpsJ Jumps for joy

In Full Flight: The Story of the Golden Age of Hurdling

Eamonn Prescott, Pitch Publishing

For the racing fan who still talks about Monksfield and Night Nurse, Eamonn Prescott revisits the golden age of hurdling. Spanning 1968 to 1981, the book follows the rivalries that made the Champion Hurdle such compelling viewing, from Lanzarote’s surprise victory to Sea Pigeon finally taking the title at 10. There’s an Irish thread, too, in the story of Golden Cygnet, the brilliant young hurdler whose career was cut short.

Paddock Grove: Horse Show Rivals (for ages 9–12)

J. P. Rose, Walker Books

A televised horse show, one dressage slot and two riders who want it. In the fourth Paddock Grove adventure, Lili and her beloved Ted have a chance to ride in the spotlight, until newcomer Danni and her snow-white horse give them serious competition.

Set at an equestrian boarding school, this is a stocking filler for young readers who like their pony stories with a little rivalry and plenty of friendship.

For the curious horseperson

Equine: A Love Letter to the Horse

Portland Jones, Exisle Publishing

Why do horses notice things we miss, and what happens when we ask them to learn something new? Horse trainer and equine behaviour lecturer Portland Jones brings together evolution, history and the science of learning to explore those questions. She moves from the origins of the modern horse to practical ideas for thoughtful training, with welfare at the centre. A gift for the horseperson who always wants to know why.

For the Irish racing fan

Punters on Tour: Around Ireland in 26 Racecourses

Seamus Hynds

Four friends, one Freelander and 26 Irish racecourses to tick off. What begins as an excuse for a few bets and a bit of craic turns into a ten-year road trip through illness, loss, a wedding and a pandemic. Seamus Hynds captures the pleasure of a day at the races and the friendships that keep people coming back. A Christmas pick for anyone already plotting their next trip to the track.