The Galway Connemara The Autobiography of an Irish Connemara Pony. If horses could talk - by Elaine Heney (Paperback)

About the Book

Lir, a Connemara pony, is born in Galway. From his early years of freedom to facing cruelty and hard times, Lir's journey through showjumping, eventing, and dressage leads him to search for a forever home. A modern-day "Black Beauty".

Book Synopsis

*** Winner, Best International Young Adult Book at the EQUUS Film Festival 2024 - The Galway Connemara ***

The Galway Connemara is a modern day story inspired by the classic 'Black Beauty', set against the breathtaking backdrop of Ireland's Atlantic coast. Born during a storm along the rugged shores of County Galway, Lir, a spirited grey Connemara pony begins life surrounded by love, freedom, and the gentle guidance of his Nana. But at just three years old, he is sold and thrust into an unfamiliar world.

Told through Lir's own eyes, this moving story follows his journey across Ireland, from showjumping arenas and eventing competitions to dressage training and family homes. Along the way, he experiences both kindness and hardship, love and loss, all while searching for the forever home he longs for. More than just a horse story, The Galway Connemara is a touching tale of resilience, empathy, and the deep bond between humans and animals. Perfect for horse lovers, equestrians, and fans of Black Beauty, this unforgettable novel is ideal for readers aged 10 and up, including teens and adults. Join Lir on his extraordinary adventure. Will he ever find the home he truly deserves?

Get your copy of The Galway Connemara today and experience this heartwarming Irish journey for yourself!

Elaine Heney is the #1 best-selling author, award-winning film-maker, director of Grey Pony Films, and creator of the 'Listening to the Horse(TM)' documentary. She has helped over 120,000+ horse owners in 113 countries to create thoughtful relationships with their horses.

Review Quotes

"This is such a great story. This book evokes a great range of emotions in the reader from sadness, outrage at inhumane treatment of animals, to joy and happiness. The story of Lir's life is so interesting and he has many owners and does a lot of different things. I highly recommend this book. It is like an Irish version of Black Beauty." Susan F.

"A truly eye opening, informative read for all. I enjoyed reading this book so much, I could not put it down. I feel that every equestrian should read this book - it does not matter if you're a rider, trainer, or horse owner. It was truly a lesson - to listen, respect and love each and every horse, not as an object but as the loving, smart and amazing animals that they are." Kendra S.

"I LOVE the education through the story. This is going to start a huge movement in young riders' treatment and understanding of the horse. Bravo!" Gillian W.

"A heart-warming story as told by Lir the Connemara pony. A modern Irish version of our old childhood favourite, Black Beauty. This has all the twists and turns you'd expect in the life of a horse." Audrey C.

"An absorbing story of a horse's life directly from his perspective, with some thrilling twists and turns along the way. I loved everything about this book and couldn't put it down! A true must read for anyone who has ever loved, or who has ever wondered what it was like, to love a horse. Five stars!" Niamh D.

"This is a well written story that follows a horse from birth through retirement. The author didn't shy away from hard truths of the horse industry. Touching on tough training methods and the sad reality of horses moving from home to home. Having the story told through the eyes of the horse added a unique and special touch." Bronwyn H.

"I loved the entire book." Denise I.

"So very accurate to real life." Lyndsey O'Toole

"Couldn't put it down!!" Suzanne H.