Between the Reins Paperback – September 1, 2010

In Between the Reins, Tom Moates's follow up to A Horse's Thought, the reader can easily perceive the growth in the author's journey with horses. Following the teachings of clinician Harry Whitney, Moates explains in detail what he is learning along the way.On page 52, he gives an example:"One of the biggest changes that has proven permanent around here with all horses is that I now go looking for what bothers [them].... I seek out those troubling places, and then get right in there and work on them."Again, on page 60, Moates relates:"Now I like to know what [the troubling spots] are, and I like to get them worked out of the horse before they become the primer charge for a much bigger blast, and maybe a nasty wreck."These are perfect examples of what Harry Whitney teaches. Find out what troubles your horse, and help him overcome it. Pay attention to the seemingly insignificant things because they could be big things to the horse. Resolving these issues as you notice them makes for a safer horse and generally results in an overall improved relationship with him. Tom Moates capably puts into words the thoughts that challenge me when I'm working with my horses, and that ongoing challenge inspires me to get better and better with them.

I discovered Mr. Moates books while looking into the horsemanship practiced by Harry Whitney. After reading Between The Reins, I was motivated find out more about this approach. Mr.Moates books have started me on an interesting journey to find a way of working with horses that offers the horse a chance to be an active participant in the process. If you want to see what this approach involves, Mr. Moates books provide an excellent introduction to the promise this method holds for us and our horses.

Don't read this book if all you are interested in is the all too familiar approach to "natural" horsemanship currently touted by many clinicians out there primarily using the horse as a prop to promote a particular method, technique, mechanics. If you are considering this book you have likely concluded there is surely a higher level of communication with horses to strive for so get this book--enjoy and learn.

For the past month, I have been attending Harry Whitney 'Honest Horsemanship' Clinics most every morning through the 'window of prose (and poetry)' shared by Tom Moates. His first two books were as thought provoking as actually being at a clinic with Harry. Now, I am moving (to) "Further Down the Trail".

I loved A Horse's Thought and the story continues with Between the Reins. I loved the illustration of Tom's two seasoned 'ranch horses' and how when they arrived at his place, both seemed afraid of ropes. He brings us along as he discuss his observations after making that discovery. I very much appreciated the example of two good old 'ranch horses' as people tend to hear the labels put on horses and think that all is well because, well, because the horse has come to them with a label. This label may be 'good' or it may be 'bad' but what Tom Moate's clarifies is that it's our responsibility to meet each horse right where they are without making assumptions. Good for the horse, good for the horsemanship. Loved!

I find the saying “The last thing you learn is the first thing you need to know” captures the concept of lifelong learning perfectly. For me good horsemanship is a path that I am excited to share with many others including Tom Moates who is a Master at sharing his path with us. I only recently attended a Harry Whitney clinic at his ranch in Salome, Arizona and this is where I picked up all four of Tom’s books: A Horse’s Thought, Between the Reins, Further along the Trail and Going Somewhere. They have accompanied me every day since and are invaluable to me. I read and then I re-read and the more I am learning the more I get out of every chapter. I love how real Tom is. When reading he enables me to be right there in the saddle, on the ground or sitting on some fence panel observing intently. I invite you to share in his journey-you may just pick up the first thing you need to know.

I can't say enough good things about this book by Mr. Tom Moates. Not only does it grace my library, it is mandatory reading for all my equestrian clients. Tom chronicles his journey and the inspiration he receives from horses and Master Horseman Harry Whitney in such a way you feel like you are sitting at the arena or up on a corral panel right next to Tom. His honest assessment of where he is in his journey invites you to look deeper into your own personal journey.I have had the pleasure of being a week long student of Harry Whitney for many years now. Tom helps us reflect on what Harry has to offer the horse and the human. He shares about a man that not many know of because Harry doesn't find a need to market himself to the public. So for folks seeking a deeper understanding of our relationship with our equine friends we have to find the time to work with this amazing one of a kind horseman. When we can't be there in person with Mr. Whitney; picking up one of Tom's book is the next best thing. His books are a must have for the serious equestrian. Challenge yourself!

Lots of interesting ideas to help you think about your horse and horsemanship, written in a friendly style, inspiring and reassuring.

I loved the part about thought magnets They are there all of the time! Thank you for bringing so much to people like me who are dedicated to really learning what horse's are all aboutYou are a gift Tom! Harry is too of course lol