Legendary trainer, breeder, and teacher Jack Brainard is a master storyteller. He will open your mind to the challenges, enjoyments, and fulfillment of training young horses. I know of no horse trainer who is a greater student of horsemanship than Jack. He has continued to improve his own skills and knowledge through his associations with master horseman like Tom Dorance and Ray Hunt, and by his intensive reading of classical horsemanship. This coupled with 50 years of training horses and producing some of the world's greatest reining horses has given him the vast wisdom that he shares here with you. You will be amazed at how he takes complex training procedures and simplifies them through his understanding of the horse's mind and movements.

This book reads like Jack is having a conversation with you. Without realizing it you will be getting lessons in equine history, anatomy, psychology and a touch of philosophy but most importantly, he conveys to you in easy to understand language how to develop the following attitudes and/or maneuvers in your horse:

Impulsion, Collection, Circles
Relaxation, Forequarter Control, Lead Changes
Willingness, Hindquarter Control, Stops
Bit Acceptance, Straightness, Spins


You will also appreciate the original drawings of noted western artist, Justin Wells and Jack's reflections on living his life as a horse trainer. Jack has been a friend, mentor, and inspiration to me. I am so glad that he wrote this much needed book and I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

Larry Kasten Professor and Equine Program Director University of Wisconsin — River Falls