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Saving Baby: How One Woman's Love for a Racehorse Led to Her Redemption
"If we see cruelty or wrong that we have the power to stop, and do nothing, we make ourselves sharers in the guilt." --Anna Sewell, author of Black Beauty
Jo Anne Normile was not supposed to keep the foal, an exuberant Thoroughbred with only a few white hairs on his reddish-brown forehead. But she fell in love with the young horse, who had literally been born into her arms. The breeder finally said she could keep the colt, whom she nicknamed "Baby" – but only if she raced him. It was difficult to take Baby away from the safety of his pasture. But Normile had made a promise. Besides, horseracing had always come across as a glamorous blend of mint juleps and celebrity, of equine grace and speed. It was a vision she found appealing. And she fell hard for it, this "Sport of Kings." She experienced a thrill every time Baby sprinted around the track, edging out other horses. But the magic that enchants is a veneer. For every Seabiscuit, there are tens of thousands of racehorses whose lives end in pain and despair, with indifference and corruption that runs rampant through the world of horse racing. Normile knew none of this. Not until an accident on a poorly maintained track. That's when everything changed. That's when Normile founded the most successful horse rescue in the country, an organization that would go on to save more horses than anyone else ever had. That's when she knew she had no other choice. Saving Baby is Jo Anne Normile's story of perseverance and passion. A heartbreaking and ultimately life-affirming book, it testifies to the transcending power of hope, and the unshakeable bond of love.
Jo Anne Normile was not supposed to keep the foal, an exuberant Thoroughbred with only a few white hairs on his reddish-brown forehead. But she fell in love with the young horse, who had literally been born into her arms. The breeder finally said she could keep the colt, whom she nicknamed "Baby" – but only if she raced him. It was difficult to take Baby away from the safety of his pasture. But Normile had made a promise. Besides, horseracing had always come across as a glamorous blend of mint juleps and celebrity, of equine grace and speed. It was a vision she found appealing. And she fell hard for it, this "Sport of Kings." She experienced a thrill every time Baby sprinted around the track, edging out other horses. But the magic that enchants is a veneer. For every Seabiscuit, there are tens of thousands of racehorses whose lives end in pain and despair, with indifference and corruption that runs rampant through the world of horse racing. Normile knew none of this. Not until an accident on a poorly maintained track. That's when everything changed. That's when Normile founded the most successful horse rescue in the country, an organization that would go on to save more horses than anyone else ever had. That's when she knew she had no other choice. Saving Baby is Jo Anne Normile's story of perseverance and passion. A heartbreaking and ultimately life-affirming book, it testifies to the transcending power of hope, and the unshakeable bond of love.
313 pages, Hardcover
First published April 16, 2013
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754 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
July 3, 2020
This was an amazing heart rendering story. I shed tears during and at the end of this book. This horse changed lives. Peoples and horses. Horses are saved now because he touched lives mine included. A great great book
July 9, 2020
A love story between a woman and a racehorse at heart, Jo Anne Normile's Saving Baby is a touching, well-written account of a struggle to save American racehorses from slaughter.
Normile describes all that is wrong with the Sport of Kings - from racing horses too young, through lousy track maintenance and pumping horses with drugs to keep them going, to injured or sound but too slow horses being discarded and sent to slaughter. As usual, it all comes down to money, and to people for whom the horses are no more than a commodity, a business.
Had she not lost her own horse at the track, where the titular Baby broke down, Normile would have raced her other two horses as well and enjoyed it. But she did lose Baby during one of the races, and from then on she vowed to save as many racehorses as she could. Her efforts soon led to founding CANTER, an organization that takes the Thoroughbreds that would've normally ended up slaughtered off the tracks and adopting them out. They become eventing horses, trail riding partners or pasture ornaments, and usually live out the rest of their days happily. You've got to remember that for an ex-racehorse, that's a long time, because Thoroughbreds are being raced as soon as they turn two, and rarely race beyond five years old. And horses live up to 30 years. On top of that, horses don't reach maturity until they're about five. Therein lies the problem with racing - literal babies are being raced, both mentally and physically, and that's why they're so prone to injuries.
I'm going to the races occasionally (and reading racehorse biographies is my guilty pleasure), but I also recognize how flawed this sport is. And yet, just like the author, I can't quite turn my back on it completely - it's just so intoxicating. Not gambling, I don't do nor get that, but just watching these horses run. I still watch Secretariat's Belmont Stakes race sometimes just to get my heart pumping. So will this book stop me from watching or going to the races? Not really, because I'm not living in the US. Normile herself writes that it's not as bad in Europe. For example, we have two racetracks in Poland, compared to hundreds in the US if I'm not mistaken, many of those cheap ones; where one closes, another opens, and so it goes.
I have seen a horse break down my first time out at the races, and he had to be put down. Although, to be fair, it was steeplechase, a discipline I genuinely don't like - it's probably the most dangerous of all in racing, because horses have to jump over obstacles while going at full speed. I've seen countless spills over the hurdles, but it was usually the jockeys who got hurt the most. Not once have I witnessed a horse break down during a flat race, and those are the races I follow. So yes, I know injuries and breakdowns happen. Jo Anne Normile, on the other hand, was living in a bubble, not noticing what was going on up until it was about her own horse.
The public isn't aware just how many horses die at the track. Only in some cases, when a famous horse breaks down on a major track, does it cause any waves at all. We all remember Ruffian and Barbaro, after all. There was also Eight Belles, whose death caused a public uproar. But for every Secretariat and Seabiscuit out there, there are hundreds of other racehorses that lived and died in cheap races or afterwards, their names forgotten because they weren't champions.
4.5*
Normile describes all that is wrong with the Sport of Kings - from racing horses too young, through lousy track maintenance and pumping horses with drugs to keep them going, to injured or sound but too slow horses being discarded and sent to slaughter. As usual, it all comes down to money, and to people for whom the horses are no more than a commodity, a business.
Had she not lost her own horse at the track, where the titular Baby broke down, Normile would have raced her other two horses as well and enjoyed it. But she did lose Baby during one of the races, and from then on she vowed to save as many racehorses as she could. Her efforts soon led to founding CANTER, an organization that takes the Thoroughbreds that would've normally ended up slaughtered off the tracks and adopting them out. They become eventing horses, trail riding partners or pasture ornaments, and usually live out the rest of their days happily. You've got to remember that for an ex-racehorse, that's a long time, because Thoroughbreds are being raced as soon as they turn two, and rarely race beyond five years old. And horses live up to 30 years. On top of that, horses don't reach maturity until they're about five. Therein lies the problem with racing - literal babies are being raced, both mentally and physically, and that's why they're so prone to injuries.
I'm going to the races occasionally (and reading racehorse biographies is my guilty pleasure), but I also recognize how flawed this sport is. And yet, just like the author, I can't quite turn my back on it completely - it's just so intoxicating. Not gambling, I don't do nor get that, but just watching these horses run. I still watch Secretariat's Belmont Stakes race sometimes just to get my heart pumping. So will this book stop me from watching or going to the races? Not really, because I'm not living in the US. Normile herself writes that it's not as bad in Europe. For example, we have two racetracks in Poland, compared to hundreds in the US if I'm not mistaken, many of those cheap ones; where one closes, another opens, and so it goes.
I have seen a horse break down my first time out at the races, and he had to be put down. Although, to be fair, it was steeplechase, a discipline I genuinely don't like - it's probably the most dangerous of all in racing, because horses have to jump over obstacles while going at full speed. I've seen countless spills over the hurdles, but it was usually the jockeys who got hurt the most. Not once have I witnessed a horse break down during a flat race, and those are the races I follow. So yes, I know injuries and breakdowns happen. Jo Anne Normile, on the other hand, was living in a bubble, not noticing what was going on up until it was about her own horse.
The public isn't aware just how many horses die at the track. Only in some cases, when a famous horse breaks down on a major track, does it cause any waves at all. We all remember Ruffian and Barbaro, after all. There was also Eight Belles, whose death caused a public uproar. But for every Secretariat and Seabiscuit out there, there are hundreds of other racehorses that lived and died in cheap races or afterwards, their names forgotten because they weren't champions.
4.5*
November 17, 2014
I would give this a 4.5. I was a goodreads first reads winner of this book.this is a tough book to read. JoAnne is a real inspriration to me for what she has done to protect horses. She is a huge animal lover especially horses. after briefly racing a horse of hers named "Baby", that ended in a tragedy, Joanne made it her life quest to protect these beautiful horses. Not only did she make it her mission to improve the safety of the racetracks these horses ran on an risked being injured.
After learning that a lot of racehorses that no longer were wanted from their owners were often sold to the slaughterhouse, JoAnne Normile started and organization called "CANTER" that bought these horse and adopted them out to other people who could provide a home for them. she has spent many years and countless hours advocating for these horses to give them a better life and save them from being horse meat. I was very impressed with this woman and her devotion to the horses she loves. ON a personal reason, i love that she is also from Michigan the state i live in.She even mentions towns and locations I know of such as Michigan state university Veteranarian hospital. I live quite near there. She even gives links to these wonderful organizations that help out horses. the horses of this country are lucky to have someone like Ms. Normile in their corner.
After learning that a lot of racehorses that no longer were wanted from their owners were often sold to the slaughterhouse, JoAnne Normile started and organization called "CANTER" that bought these horse and adopted them out to other people who could provide a home for them. she has spent many years and countless hours advocating for these horses to give them a better life and save them from being horse meat. I was very impressed with this woman and her devotion to the horses she loves. ON a personal reason, i love that she is also from Michigan the state i live in.She even mentions towns and locations I know of such as Michigan state university Veteranarian hospital. I live quite near there. She even gives links to these wonderful organizations that help out horses. the horses of this country are lucky to have someone like Ms. Normile in their corner.
January 18, 2019
If you are a horse lover, you will enjoy this book. It is not always easy though. The author's memoir details her passionate mission to save thoroughbred race horses from being slaughtered once their racing days are over.
I grew up around a race track, horse owners, trainers, jockeys, and the wonderful horses. I always felt that the horses were not treated kindly. There were many trainers who were harsh in their treatment, like tying their tongues. Horses were drugged to mask pain and were driven hard so that they broke down, or injured themselves; for example, bone chips in their knees. What I did not realize is that once the owner and trainer decide a horse in unfit to run any longer, the rule of thumb was to sell them to a kill buyer who then took them to slaughter. Their death was a violent and bloody one; not a peaceful injection.
Jo Anne Normile wrote of her experience in racing her horse Baby in Michigan in the 1990's. I must warn you, there is a tragic incident in the book which leads Jo Anne on an incredible mission to save horses. She is truly an inspiration to me, and ultimately saved thousands of horses from being slaughtered.
The book taught me a lot about horses, the way the slaughter enterprise runs in the U.S., and also how one person can make a huge difference in the world. This woman has a huge heart and will always have my undying respect. I fell in love with her horses, too. I also found my new favorite nonprofit: Canter.
I grew up around a race track, horse owners, trainers, jockeys, and the wonderful horses. I always felt that the horses were not treated kindly. There were many trainers who were harsh in their treatment, like tying their tongues. Horses were drugged to mask pain and were driven hard so that they broke down, or injured themselves; for example, bone chips in their knees. What I did not realize is that once the owner and trainer decide a horse in unfit to run any longer, the rule of thumb was to sell them to a kill buyer who then took them to slaughter. Their death was a violent and bloody one; not a peaceful injection.
Jo Anne Normile wrote of her experience in racing her horse Baby in Michigan in the 1990's. I must warn you, there is a tragic incident in the book which leads Jo Anne on an incredible mission to save horses. She is truly an inspiration to me, and ultimately saved thousands of horses from being slaughtered.
The book taught me a lot about horses, the way the slaughter enterprise runs in the U.S., and also how one person can make a huge difference in the world. This woman has a huge heart and will always have my undying respect. I fell in love with her horses, too. I also found my new favorite nonprofit: Canter.
November 7, 2014
Half way through her memoir SAVING BABY (co-written with Lawrence Lindner), Jo Anne Normile hits her tipping point when she recognizes the extent of the slaughter pipeline at the racetrack where her beloved horse Baby competed. Her anger and helplessness become nearly unbearable. It is that tipping point which leads her to work harder on behalf of the Thoroughbreds, and culminates in the creation of two huge rescue organizations. She is not tireless, but she does not give up. Her health and family are compromised by her devotion, but her determination is steadfast.
Being a witness to abuse and feeling helpless to stop it is torture. Jo Anne Normile does not actually witness any crime, since it is not a crime to send a horse to slaughter, even if the horse is only two-years old and basically sound. If the trainer can’t win with the horse, off he goes. Nor are some of the other myriad abuses she sees considered criminal. It’s the way the unregulated racing industry works: the horses are simply commodities, not pets, and are often not even considered to be living, breathing, loving creatures.
Baby, whose registered name was Reel Surprise, is born at the Normile’s barn as a favor to the owner who was recovering from a heart attack. In return, once the mare, Precocious Pat, was ready, Normile could breed her to Secretariat’s son, and keep that foal, fulfilling her bucket list-type wish to have a grandchild of Secretariat on her farm. But Pat’s owner’s health does not improve, and he asks that Baby stay with the Normile family, with one condition: they must race him.
Thus began Jo Anne’s entry into the strange, exciting, and ultimately disheartening world of Thoroughbred horse racing. The incidents of mistreatment she witnesses are hard enough to take, but she believes she must keep her mind on her own horse and not get in the middle of racetrack politics and questionable practices.
Fortunately for the race horses, that reticence ends, but only as a result of tragedy. Jo Anne is compelled to fight to save as many horses as possible in Baby’s name.
SAVING BABY is a much needed eye-opener about the realities of Thoroughbred racing and about being complicit in what can only be described as barbaric mistreatment of animals. And it will perhaps remind us all that standing by and minding our own business is not an option. Rescue work takes a huge toll on Normile’s health, family life, and finances. Still, she perseveres.
Being a witness to abuse and feeling helpless to stop it is torture. Jo Anne Normile does not actually witness any crime, since it is not a crime to send a horse to slaughter, even if the horse is only two-years old and basically sound. If the trainer can’t win with the horse, off he goes. Nor are some of the other myriad abuses she sees considered criminal. It’s the way the unregulated racing industry works: the horses are simply commodities, not pets, and are often not even considered to be living, breathing, loving creatures.
Baby, whose registered name was Reel Surprise, is born at the Normile’s barn as a favor to the owner who was recovering from a heart attack. In return, once the mare, Precocious Pat, was ready, Normile could breed her to Secretariat’s son, and keep that foal, fulfilling her bucket list-type wish to have a grandchild of Secretariat on her farm. But Pat’s owner’s health does not improve, and he asks that Baby stay with the Normile family, with one condition: they must race him.
Thus began Jo Anne’s entry into the strange, exciting, and ultimately disheartening world of Thoroughbred horse racing. The incidents of mistreatment she witnesses are hard enough to take, but she believes she must keep her mind on her own horse and not get in the middle of racetrack politics and questionable practices.
Fortunately for the race horses, that reticence ends, but only as a result of tragedy. Jo Anne is compelled to fight to save as many horses as possible in Baby’s name.
SAVING BABY is a much needed eye-opener about the realities of Thoroughbred racing and about being complicit in what can only be described as barbaric mistreatment of animals. And it will perhaps remind us all that standing by and minding our own business is not an option. Rescue work takes a huge toll on Normile’s health, family life, and finances. Still, she perseveres.
November 23, 2014
I received a free copy of this book, which I had selected because I'm "into horses", i.e I work with an adaptive/riding and hippotherapy program where I'm a horse handler. That's for background.
My first reaction to this book is that it's not literature. In my opinion, it's written in a journalistic style and gives a recitation of events punctuated with the author's feelings of said events. And there are seldom any happy ones.
The good: 1) I learned a lot about race tracks, particularly the less known ones; and about the abominable treatment of thoroughbreds who can't or can no longer make money for their owners. 2) I admired the author's passion for these horses' plights and her tireless efforts to improve horse management at race tracks.
The bad: 1) The journalistic style made for easy but not necessarily pleasant reading. 2) I found myself becoming annoyed at the author: i. for neglecting family (daughters and husband) for the sake of her passion for thoroughbreds ii. for sobbing the loss of her racehorse a decade or more after its untimely death (she must suffer from mental imbalance/OCD). 3) Despite the book's suggestive title ("how one woman's love for a racehorse led to her redemption") I'm still not sure how/when she was redeemed 4) While it's a natural tendency for those who work with animals, the author's frequent uses of anthropomorphisms as she related to the horses was extreme.
In conclusion, anyone interested in the specific topic may appreciate the narrative and the insights it provides. Might be a tough read for anyone else.
My first reaction to this book is that it's not literature. In my opinion, it's written in a journalistic style and gives a recitation of events punctuated with the author's feelings of said events. And there are seldom any happy ones.
The good: 1) I learned a lot about race tracks, particularly the less known ones; and about the abominable treatment of thoroughbreds who can't or can no longer make money for their owners. 2) I admired the author's passion for these horses' plights and her tireless efforts to improve horse management at race tracks.
The bad: 1) The journalistic style made for easy but not necessarily pleasant reading. 2) I found myself becoming annoyed at the author: i. for neglecting family (daughters and husband) for the sake of her passion for thoroughbreds ii. for sobbing the loss of her racehorse a decade or more after its untimely death (she must suffer from mental imbalance/OCD). 3) Despite the book's suggestive title ("how one woman's love for a racehorse led to her redemption") I'm still not sure how/when she was redeemed 4) While it's a natural tendency for those who work with animals, the author's frequent uses of anthropomorphisms as she related to the horses was extreme.
In conclusion, anyone interested in the specific topic may appreciate the narrative and the insights it provides. Might be a tough read for anyone else.
November 14, 2013
This is an incredible detailed account of what is really going on behind the scenes of America's horse racing business. As European jockey / exercise rider I had 15 years of experience in this sport, working closely with these amazing animals and loved every second of it. After moving to the US it took me approximately 3 years to learn what is being done to the horses here and I left the sport feeling ashamed and helpless.
Jo Anne's experiences come from an even 'higher level', as she was able to connect to many people in the different associations, commissions, etc. With her unconditional love to these amazing creatures, who give their all to us in each training session and race, she was able to save hundreds of them and build up a great rescue organization. She devoted years of her life to this cause, almost neglecting her own family and personal animals in the process. She received high awards and much media attention, yet the very sad and almost disgusting fact is: that not much has changed. Thoroughbred horses are still bred each year to be thrown away if not sold, abused and pumped full of drugs, and very often run to death.
Jo Anne's experiences come from an even 'higher level', as she was able to connect to many people in the different associations, commissions, etc. With her unconditional love to these amazing creatures, who give their all to us in each training session and race, she was able to save hundreds of them and build up a great rescue organization. She devoted years of her life to this cause, almost neglecting her own family and personal animals in the process. She received high awards and much media attention, yet the very sad and almost disgusting fact is: that not much has changed. Thoroughbred horses are still bred each year to be thrown away if not sold, abused and pumped full of drugs, and very often run to death.
February 18, 2014
JoAnne Normile loved horses all her life but was never able to own any until she had a well-established family of her own. Then with two horses of her own, she increased her herd to include two race horses. Baby (Reel Surprise), saved by Normile from certain death during birthing and Scarlett, a filly descended from Triple Crown winner Secretariat, was added to her horse family.
With no previous experience in racing, but determined to make a go of it, Normile immersed herself in the racing world but was stunned to learn about the harsh treatment of most thoroughbreds, the deplorable conditions of the track and management, and the tragic end that many of these horses face. It took the death of her beloved horse Baby, who became yet another victim, to propel Normile into action.
Normile launched CANTER, a non-profit rescue organization which places thoroughbreds with new owners. She has also spoken been an advisor to senators, congressmen, filmmakers, legal firms, and humane organizations regarding the condition and treatment of race horses.
If you are horse lover or a fan of horse racing, you won’t want to miss this book. I give if four out of five stars.
With no previous experience in racing, but determined to make a go of it, Normile immersed herself in the racing world but was stunned to learn about the harsh treatment of most thoroughbreds, the deplorable conditions of the track and management, and the tragic end that many of these horses face. It took the death of her beloved horse Baby, who became yet another victim, to propel Normile into action.
Normile launched CANTER, a non-profit rescue organization which places thoroughbreds with new owners. She has also spoken been an advisor to senators, congressmen, filmmakers, legal firms, and humane organizations regarding the condition and treatment of race horses.
If you are horse lover or a fan of horse racing, you won’t want to miss this book. I give if four out of five stars.
January 22, 2014
This is a well written first-hand account of the horrors of the horse racing industry. The author's loss of her beloved horse Baby, prompts her to push for better surface conditions at the Michigan track where horses had been breaking limbs at an alarming rate.
After which, Jo Anne's work to place retired thoroughbreds both injured and healthy, led to her starting CANTER, a not for profit OTTB horse rescue organization.
I found this book difficult to read even though I am familiar with the atrocities that occur every day at race tracks across the country. A must read for all horse lovers.
After which, Jo Anne's work to place retired thoroughbreds both injured and healthy, led to her starting CANTER, a not for profit OTTB horse rescue organization.
I found this book difficult to read even though I am familiar with the atrocities that occur every day at race tracks across the country. A must read for all horse lovers.
February 29, 2016
I love horses and follow horse racing fairly closely, even though I only sat on one briefly as a child. So this nonfiction account of Jo Anne's devotion to her "herd" was interesting, educational, and touching. Of all of Jo Anne's horses, she was most devoted and attached to Baby. Through Baby she turned her love of horses into a cause that would ultimately benefit many humans and horses.
This was a great read, and Jo Anne described the horses in her life with wonderful clarity. I especially enjoyed her descriptions of how the horses related to one another!
This was a great read, and Jo Anne described the horses in her life with wonderful clarity. I especially enjoyed her descriptions of how the horses related to one another!
January 20, 2014
Like the author, I used to be enamored with the racing industry. In the past few years, I have learned of many horrors involved with the horse industry as a whole in this country. What a fantastic book to give the author's side of things as she fought to bring about changes in the racing industry, and later the horse industry.
November 14, 2017
The author brings into the light the heartless slaughter of racehorses that are injured on the track (many times through neglect by their wealthy owners). Her own heart break in losing her first horse, that broke down on a faulty prepared track (progeny of Secretariat) plummets her into finding new owners who actually care what happens to these beautiful bred-to-win animals.
February 27, 2017
This is an exceptionally good true account of a woman who devoted a huge chunk of her life to finding homes for thoroughbred horses after their career as racehorses was over. The organization she started, CANTER, was begun after Jo Anne lived through her "Baby" breaking his leg racing at Ladbroke DRC, a racecourse in Livonia MI.
I grew up less than a mile from DRC, and as a horse-crazy teen in the '70's, weaseled my way into a brief job (until mom found out) working hot walking and cleaning stalls and even grooming horses. I knew some of the folks Jo Anne mentions in the book, and purchased my 2nd OTTB (Off Track Thoroughbred) from a DRC trainer in 1992.
I had the incredible good fortune to be involved in a riding program originally through Girl Scouts, later as a non-profit at Ivory Farms in Union Lake, MI from 1971-1986 when the property the program leased was sold. Mr. John F. Ivory was VERY influential in polo in MI, polo players tend to ride OTTB, so when the girl scouts began riding his horses in the early 60's the percentage of TB's was high. I met the equine love of my life at Ivory Farms on my first visit there with my girl scout troop on a weekend stay. I'd been horse crazy all my life, but my Dad died when I was 8 and living on a very fixed income in a Detroit suburb did not bode well for ever having one of my own. When I saw "Susie" for the first time it was on a late afternoon "trail ride" in 1971. She was ridden by an aide with the program, and she passed me literally prancing in passage, nostrils flared with the sun shining through, and I was smitten. In love. The background literally blurred away and she became my focal point for several moments, and from then on my only wish was to become a good enough rider to someday ride her. Through a strange twist of fate, I was able to buy that amazing mare in 1986 when the program closed. The day she actually became mine I was more excited than I'd ever been in my life prior. She was 22 years old, and until her death at almost 30, she taught me more than any other horse I've ever known. I've had 9 other horses since, 4 of whom I'm looking out my window at right now, and I tell them at least weekly how they should thank Susie.
Jo Ann describes giving CPR to "Baby", her first foal. I had to do that with one of mine. Jo Anne is the only person I've ever read about who has also done that.
OK, I've rambled on enough. Bottom line -- if you like horses, a really well-written account of a woman who has made a REAL contribution to animal welfare, you will enjoy this book.
I grew up less than a mile from DRC, and as a horse-crazy teen in the '70's, weaseled my way into a brief job (until mom found out) working hot walking and cleaning stalls and even grooming horses. I knew some of the folks Jo Anne mentions in the book, and purchased my 2nd OTTB (Off Track Thoroughbred) from a DRC trainer in 1992.
I had the incredible good fortune to be involved in a riding program originally through Girl Scouts, later as a non-profit at Ivory Farms in Union Lake, MI from 1971-1986 when the property the program leased was sold. Mr. John F. Ivory was VERY influential in polo in MI, polo players tend to ride OTTB, so when the girl scouts began riding his horses in the early 60's the percentage of TB's was high. I met the equine love of my life at Ivory Farms on my first visit there with my girl scout troop on a weekend stay. I'd been horse crazy all my life, but my Dad died when I was 8 and living on a very fixed income in a Detroit suburb did not bode well for ever having one of my own. When I saw "Susie" for the first time it was on a late afternoon "trail ride" in 1971. She was ridden by an aide with the program, and she passed me literally prancing in passage, nostrils flared with the sun shining through, and I was smitten. In love. The background literally blurred away and she became my focal point for several moments, and from then on my only wish was to become a good enough rider to someday ride her. Through a strange twist of fate, I was able to buy that amazing mare in 1986 when the program closed. The day she actually became mine I was more excited than I'd ever been in my life prior. She was 22 years old, and until her death at almost 30, she taught me more than any other horse I've ever known. I've had 9 other horses since, 4 of whom I'm looking out my window at right now, and I tell them at least weekly how they should thank Susie.
Jo Ann describes giving CPR to "Baby", her first foal. I had to do that with one of mine. Jo Anne is the only person I've ever read about who has also done that.
OK, I've rambled on enough. Bottom line -- if you like horses, a really well-written account of a woman who has made a REAL contribution to animal welfare, you will enjoy this book.
May 2, 2021
JoAnne Normile had wanted horses all of her life, and finally had them. Because of an agreement with the real owner of her horse, Baby (whom she raised since birth and had a very special bond with), JoAnne got involved in the racing world, helping Baby fulfill his genetic destiny. But when Baby was injured in completely preventable freak accident during a race and had to be put down, JoAnne began to learn the dark side of racing--what happens with all those horses that are "retired," the slaughterhouse companies who pick them up, and the horror they endure before their final death.
Horses injured on the track are put down on the track or sent to a slaughterhouse. Sometimes horses are slaughtered just for losing a race because they are too expensive to keep if they aren't bringing in win money. Horses may die because of drugs given to them to help their performance.
Normile asks:
In what other sport are…
* the bodies of adolescent athletes pounded into the ground without remorse?
*the athletes kept in intensive, solitary confinement for over 23 hours a day?
*the athletes condemned to a life as (literal) chattel?
*the athletes drugged and doped without consent?
*the athletes whipped – beaten – for motivation?
*the athletes routinely dying on the playing field?
*the athletes brutally and violently slaughtered upon retirement?
Starting small, Normile began "re-homing" those injured race horses and ultimately founded CANTER, a Michigan-based organization that helped save horses from the nightmare of the slaughterhouse. Now CANTER is a nation wide, thriving non-profit business which has saved thousands of horses from painful deaths. She started a web site, Horseracing Wrongs with shocking information about horse racing.
The page on the deaths of horses in 2020 alone is mind-blowing.
I can't watch horse racing with the same enjoyment any more. I still watch the races, but now I feel guilty when I do.
Horses injured on the track are put down on the track or sent to a slaughterhouse. Sometimes horses are slaughtered just for losing a race because they are too expensive to keep if they aren't bringing in win money. Horses may die because of drugs given to them to help their performance.
Normile asks:
In what other sport are…
* the bodies of adolescent athletes pounded into the ground without remorse?
*the athletes kept in intensive, solitary confinement for over 23 hours a day?
*the athletes condemned to a life as (literal) chattel?
*the athletes drugged and doped without consent?
*the athletes whipped – beaten – for motivation?
*the athletes routinely dying on the playing field?
*the athletes brutally and violently slaughtered upon retirement?
Starting small, Normile began "re-homing" those injured race horses and ultimately founded CANTER, a Michigan-based organization that helped save horses from the nightmare of the slaughterhouse. Now CANTER is a nation wide, thriving non-profit business which has saved thousands of horses from painful deaths. She started a web site, Horseracing Wrongs with shocking information about horse racing.
The page on the deaths of horses in 2020 alone is mind-blowing.
I can't watch horse racing with the same enjoyment any more. I still watch the races, but now I feel guilty when I do.
November 21, 2018
The comment by Kirkus Reviews, on the back cover of this book, which is to the effect that this is a riveting narrative even if you don't have a particular interest in racing or horses, is on the mark. This book stands on its own as a very good piece of writing, regardless of the subject matter. But it is also a book which is deeply affecting for anyone who doesn't have a heart made of stone, because it is about the sacrificial, cruel attitudes of the racing industry towards thoroughbreds and the hidden, absolutely shocking atrocities, the terrible living conditions, substandard, neglectful, and mean spirited "care" given to race horses by the majority of owners and trainers, veterinarian and even grooms in this blood sport industry. I couldn't put this book down. To not come away shocked and angry at what happens in racing, across the country, is well-nigh impossible. The story is that of a deeply loving guardian, Jo Anne Normile and her very young horse, Baby, who died from a fatal injury on the track, her searing grief and remorse (in spite of her naivete about the dangers in racing) and her 20 + years of subsequent work to save injured or "spent" race horses from the slaughterhouse. Anyone who loves animals will never forget this book. I know that I won't and I will always oppose the racing industry, tooth and nail, now that I know what goes on. It is an industry which cannot be reformed and must be banned across the globe, as with greyhound racing. (See horseracingwrongs.com "On the central matter of “casualties” and “catastrophic breakdowns,” while drugs, pre-existing injuries, track conditions, etc. are all certainly relevant, the simple truth is that the maiming and destruction of racehorses is inherent to the industry. Death at the track is, always has been, and always will be an inevitable part of racing.")
July 16, 2024
Jo Anne Normile was not supposed to keep the foal, an exuberant Thoroughbred with only a few white hairs on his reddish-brown forehead. But she fell in love with the young horse, who had literally been born into her arms. The breeder finally said she could keep the colt, whom she nicknamed "Baby" – but only if she raced him. It was difficult to take Baby away from the safety of his pasture. But Normile had made a promise. Besides, horseracing had always come across as a glamorous blend of mint juleps and celebrity, of equine grace and speed. It was a vision she found appealing. And she fell hard for it, this "Sport of Kings." She experienced a thrill every time Baby sprinted around the track, edging out other horses. But the magic that enchants is a veneer. For every Seabiscuit, there are tens of thousands of racehorses whose lives end in pain and despair, with indifference and corruption that runs rampant through the world of horse racing. Normile knew none of this. Not until an accident on a poorly maintained track. That's when everything changed. That's when Normile founded the most successful horse rescue in the country, an organization that would go on to save more horses than anyone else ever had. That's when she knew she had no other choice. Saving Baby is Jo Anne Normile's story of perseverance and passion. A heartbreaking and ultimately life-affirming book, it testifies to the transcending power of hope, and the unshakeable bond of love.
April 30, 2019
This book is a good look into the darker side of horse racing, something that as a horse racing fan, I am ashamed of. The book brought to light some of the dangerous conditions that less funded tracks have, which often escapes the notice of governing bodies due to the low profile of the track. We certainly pay attention when something happens at a large track, like the tragedy at Santa Anita, but many times we don't even care when horses die at the small tracks. That being said, I still follow racing, but strongly support reforms in both governments of the tracks and animal welfare at many tracks.
Saving Baby tells the tale of a woman's love for a racehorse and the tragedy that follows his racing career. It highlights the importance of aftercare needs for thoroughbreds and CANTER's amazing work in that regard. If I ever buy another horse, I would like it to be an OTTB, as there is a great need for loving homes for these incredible horses. This is a good read for horse lovers and racing fans alike, a bit of a reminder that the sport that many of us love has a darker side just like any equine event.
Saving Baby tells the tale of a woman's love for a racehorse and the tragedy that follows his racing career. It highlights the importance of aftercare needs for thoroughbreds and CANTER's amazing work in that regard. If I ever buy another horse, I would like it to be an OTTB, as there is a great need for loving homes for these incredible horses. This is a good read for horse lovers and racing fans alike, a bit of a reminder that the sport that many of us love has a darker side just like any equine event.
June 23, 2018
An interesting account of thoroughbred racing from one woman's vantage point into the corrupt practices of the industry. That's the interesting and redeeming part of the story. And while I enjoyed learning about her horses, especially Baby, I found her obsessions about him and the other horses more and more difficult to take.
She really did view her horses as children, and while I am an avid animal lover, her emotional attachment to them felt more than a little unhealthy. I found her seeming inability to distance herself from Baby's accident and gain any objectivity in running her rescue operation to be draining. Rather than finding this book to be uplifting or inspiring, I finished it feeling exhausted by her all-consuming pace to rescue every horse that had been abused, unrealistic under any circumstance. In the end, I found the book to be more about her than the larger issues, and I became tired of her sanctimoniousness. Rather than finding Baby, he became lost in the drama of a life spiraling out of control.
She really did view her horses as children, and while I am an avid animal lover, her emotional attachment to them felt more than a little unhealthy. I found her seeming inability to distance herself from Baby's accident and gain any objectivity in running her rescue operation to be draining. Rather than finding this book to be uplifting or inspiring, I finished it feeling exhausted by her all-consuming pace to rescue every horse that had been abused, unrealistic under any circumstance. In the end, I found the book to be more about her than the larger issues, and I became tired of her sanctimoniousness. Rather than finding Baby, he became lost in the drama of a life spiraling out of control.
July 13, 2018
Fascinating read about a woman whose eyes are opened to the exciting but exploitative world of thoroughbred horse racing after realizing a dream and owning a young foal.
Finding greed and corruption in the very organizations and associations at tracks meant to ensure safety and good treatment of the horses, she slowly becomes an advocate and activist for these beautiful creatures and fights for the voiceless, helpless horses that everyone is profiting from but doing little to safeguard.
Not for the faint of heart; it had me crying real tears and cursing the heartless perpetrators. The author is a true hero.
Finding greed and corruption in the very organizations and associations at tracks meant to ensure safety and good treatment of the horses, she slowly becomes an advocate and activist for these beautiful creatures and fights for the voiceless, helpless horses that everyone is profiting from but doing little to safeguard.
Not for the faint of heart; it had me crying real tears and cursing the heartless perpetrators. The author is a true hero.
May 5, 2025
Up until about midway through this book I was fully absorbed with Jo Anne and Baby. I cried and my heart ached for Mrs. Normile and her devastating loss. But with her shipping out another of her horses for the glory of blue ribbons and as she saved the world but neglected her own home and the horses she owned and loved (?) I backed away from this woman. The divorce from her was complete when on page 212 she was actually wanting to return to racing her horses! WHAT? Yeah, she realized it was a bad idea and actually a compulsion akin to a drug addiction, but it just seems to me that losing Baby wasn't all that much to her afterall. Looney Tunes.
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January 22, 2022Jo Anne was there for Baby at birth and her live for this animal comes through strongly. They share a special bond so that made it difficult to understand when they kept saying that the track was rough in patches and holes that she didn't check it out herself or pull baby from the race instead of not believing what was being said. Horses lives are at stake. Baby shattered it's leg as a result and had to be put down. This could've been avoided if she used some common sense. It broke my heart reading this and I couldn't bring myself to read any further
July 8, 2017
I'm a little biased here and my rating is very much influenced by the fact that I'm on the board of one of CANTER's chapters. However, I thought this was a really great account of how ordinary animal loving people get so involved with a cause that they end up creating non-profit organizations. This book has some really touching moments that describe the horse-human connection and also provided some valuable insight into life at the racetrack and how surely many organizations get their start.
January 30, 2020
This book took me a while to get through, as a lover of horses this book really tugged at my heart strings and I found myself in tears on more than one occasion!!
I’d have to re group and come back to further the Book each time.
But what a fabulous book!
This book was well written and had the right amount of everything to keep you wanting to finish it, I just had to keep the tissues stocked up!!!
I’d have to re group and come back to further the Book each time.
But what a fabulous book!
This book was well written and had the right amount of everything to keep you wanting to finish it, I just had to keep the tissues stocked up!!!
July 16, 2024
I cried and was heartbroken reading how greed and money are priority of many involved in horse racing. They treat animals as a paycheck caring nothing about their welfare. The author is my hero. She truly gave her all. She cared about the horses and she never gave up. She fought for them and saved so many from the slaughterhouses. She gave so many a 2nd chance and others too abused to go on…., she gave a loving and meaningful death. This book was a difficult read but a necessary one.
October 31, 2025
This was so good, but so sad. I barely kept myself from crying multiple times. I knew most of this stuff existed, and it upset me already, but man, I was not ready to read some of it. It is very inspiring, and I've become interested in CANTER now. I also like how not everyone at the track was bad, because I have met people in the racing industry who do take care of their horses. I'm really glad someone is trying to do something about the slaughter issue.
April 11, 2020
Incredibly powerful and gripping page turner about a women that lands in the world of horse racing and decides to help those that would give their heart for their ridders after a tragic accident. An eye opener for those that only see the glamourous side of racing through the triple crown and not the heartbreaking reality. An absolute must read for animal and horse lovers!
August 16, 2023
I found this while weeding the collection. It looked interesting and I checked it out. I'm glad I did---as with Greyhound Racing, it opened my eyes to the goings on in the horse racing industry. Very sad. Totally worth reading and expanding my knowledge instead of believing that everything was wonderful.
June 22, 2018
2018 Popsugar Challenge: A book about or involving a sport. This was an eye opening - and tear inducing - book. It's so sad that these beautiful creatures are treated so badly but kudos to the author for doing everything she can to make a difference.
February 16, 2024
Heartbreaking, gut-wrenching but an incredible woman who believed she could and did! “I don’t love horse racing, I love the thoroughbred horse.” Quote from another incredible horse woman whom I love and respect greatly.
August 6, 2017
It's a really sad book that has a meaningful message and gives an insight to horse racing that I never knew about.
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