The Second String By: Nat Gould (1857-1919) |
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The Second String by Nat Gould is a captivating and emotional tale set in the world of horse racing. From the very first pages, the author's descriptive writing style immediately pulls readers into the intense and unpredictable world of thoroughbred racing.
The story follows the journey of a second-string jockey named Tom Ryder, who has spent most of his career in the shadow of the more successful and well-known riders. Despite his talent and determination, Tom finds himself consistently overlooked by trainers and owners, struggling to make a name for himself. This predicament gives readers a glimpse into the cutthroat nature of the racing industry, where the line between success and failure is often determined by a mere fraction of a second.
The character development in this novel is exceptional. Tom Ryder is a protagonist with depth and complexity, making it easy for readers to empathize with his struggles and root for his success. Throughout the book, the author skillfully explores themes of ambition, perseverance, and the quest for redemption, creating a compelling narrative arc that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.
Aside from the central character, the supporting cast is equally well-crafted. Each individual, be it fellow jockeys, trainers, or horse owners, is distinct and nuanced, adding layers of depth to the story. Gould's keen observation of the racing world shines through in his realistic portrayal of the various personalities and the horse racing subculture.
What sets this book apart is the author's profound knowledge and understanding of horse racing. The vivid descriptions of races and training sessions are captivating, transporting readers right onto the track. Gould expertly weaves intricate details about terminology, tactics, and the silent communication between rider and thoroughbred, painting a hauntingly beautiful picture of the sport.
The pacing of The Second String is well-balanced, keeping readers on the edge of their seats while providing moments of introspection and reflection. The narrative flows smoothly, with every chapter building upon the last, gradually raising the stakes until the heart-stopping climax. The blend of thrilling racing scenes and quiet, introspective moments creates an engaging narrative that keeps readers hooked from the start.
However, it is worth mentioning that at times, the story gets bogged down by extensive exposition. While the author's meticulous attention to detail is commendable, there are instances where the storytelling becomes slightly cumbersome. Nonetheless, this is a minor flaw in an otherwise engrossing novel.
Overall, The Second String is an enthralling and poignant exploration of the racing world, delving into the complexities of the human spirit and the pursuit of one's dreams. Nat Gould's masterful storytelling, combined with his intricate knowledge of horse racing, creates an unforgettable reading experience. Whether or not you have an affinity for the sport, this book is bound to captivate and inspire, reminding us that success and fulfillment often lie in the choices we make and the chances we take. BY NAT GOULD AUTHOR OF "THE DOUBLE EVENT," "A RACECOURSE TRAGEDY," "THE GOLD WHIP," ETC., ETC. LONDON R. A. EVERETT & CO., LTD. 42 ESSEX STREET, STRAND, W.C. [ All Rights Reserved. ] CONTENTS I. THE FAILURE II. JACK'S RESOLVE III. A SCHOOL CHUM IV. AN OLD TIME SKIPPER V. TOPSY TURVY VI. TAPPING VII. WEATHERING THE STORM VIII. BARRY TUXFORD IX. IN SHARK'S BAY X. THE TWO BLACK DIVERS XI. TURNING TURTLE AND AFTER XII. JACOB'S YARN XIII. THE DIVERS AT WORK XIV. THE BLACK PEARL XV. A CLEVER THIEF XVI. JACK DISCOVERS HIS LOSS XVII. THE PEARL DEALER XVIII. ON HORSEBACK AGAIN XIX. A STAB IN THE DARK XX. THE TRAINER'S SUGGESTION XXI. BRICKY FINDS A JOB XXII. BLACK BOY'S OWNER XXIII. BARRY WAXES ELOQUENT XXIV. BADLY RIDDEN XXV. SOMETHING ABOUT WINIFRED XXVI. A PUZZLE XXVII. THE SECOND STRING XXVIII. THE NEW CLAIMS XXIX. BOUND FOR HOME XXX. REALISATION THE SECOND STRING CHAPTER FIRST THE FAILURE "There goes the failure of the family, yet I like him, there's real grit in him if it was brought out." The speaker was Sir Lester Dyke, and the remark was made to his daughter, Winifred... Continue reading book >>
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