The Handy Horse-book
or Practical Instructions in Driving, Riding, and the General Care and Management of Horses. 4th ed.
"The Handy Horse-book" by Maurice Hartland Mahon is a manual on driving, riding, and the general care and management of horses written in the late 19th century. The book serves as a practical guide for horse owners and enthusiasts, detailing various aspects of horse care, training, and selection, drawing from the author’s extensive experience as a cavalry officer and horseman. It aims to empower readers with the necessary knowledge to handle horses competently and confidently without over-reliance on professionals. The opening of the book introduces the author's motivation for writing this manual, stemming from his desire to share practical knowledge and experience related to horse management. He expresses concern about the treatment of horses and aims to enlighten horse-owners about effective care and management practices. Various topics are introduced, such as breeding, selecting, and managing horses, with a clear intention to provide straightforward and accessible advice rather than theoretical discussions. The author emphasizes the need for practical, actionable guidance, aiming to make readers more informed and independent in their approach to horse care.