Heartbeat for Horses is a collection of writing and photographs brought together in honor of horse crazy girls-those who might only live in the fantasy world of books and porcelain statues, who pin posters onto their walls and dream of jumping like National Velvet, or who actually compete in rodeos and horse shows in an attempt to win that blue ribbon. Writer/editor, Laura Chester, has selected a brilliant array of prose and poetry that is paired with the evocative photography of Donna DeMari.

Included are world class writers such as Elyne Mitchell with her fabulous story, The Silver Brumby, about well as Kate Seredy's tale, The Good Master, set in the countryside outside of Budapest. Eilis Dillon's Irish novel, The Island of Horses, accompanies poems and stories by many American writers, such as John Hawkes' Sweet William, told from the point of view of his aging thoroughbred. Also included are wonderful works by Lucy Grealy, Mark Spragg, Lyn Lifshin, Michael Korda, Kay Boyle, Will James, Maxine Kumin, and many others.

Photographer Donna DeMari has captured the heartfelt connection between girls and their horses in her wonderful color photographs that are scattered throughout the text. DeMari and Chester together have created an equestrian dream, with selections and pictures that give us a glimpse into this special, secret world. Their collection is sure to inspire young riders and to touch the hearts of horse lovers everywhere. Anyone who is passionate about the beauty and appeal of horses will respond to this exceptional treat.