Discover some of the best books about horse racing and horse racing biographies in this article. From Seabiscuit to Black Caviar, learn about the stories of some of the most famous racehorses in history and the people who trained and rode them. Whether you're a fan of the sport or simply love a good biography, this list is sure to provide plenty of inspiration.
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adminUpdated 9 Oct 2026 · 3 min read
Horse racing is a thrilling and exhilarating sport that people have enjoyed for centuries. There are many fascinating aspects to horse racing, including its rich history. As a result, it has been the subject of countless books, both fiction and non-fiction, which explore the history, culture, and excitement of the horse racing sport.
Horse racing biographies are particularly fascinating as they delve into the lives of the people and horses that have made the sport what it is today.
TwinSpires page is an excellent place to start if you’re an avid reader interested in horse racing. As a result, you will not only become familiar with several horse racing terminologies that frequently appear in books, but also you will learn about the fastest Kentucky Derby times. Named books are recommended for everyone but especially for racing fans with a hunger for history.
Let’s dive in!
A List of 6 Inspiring Books About Horse Racing
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01
Seabiscuit: An American LegendLaura Hillenbrand
Seabiscuit: An American Legend
by Laura Hillenbrand
This New York Times bestseller tells the story of Seabiscuit, one of the most famous racehorses in American history. This book explores the story of a horse who came from rags to riches, as well as the lives of the people who owned him and trained him and even rode him. It’s a heart-warming and inspiring tale that is sure to captivate readers, and we wouldn’t be surprised if many of you had read this one before.
02
Secretariat: The Making of a Champion
by William Nack
This biography tells the story of Secretariat, one of the most beloved racehorses of all time. Throughout the story, the reader learns about the horse’s journey from birth to becoming the first Triple Crown winner in 25 years, as well as the many people who assisted him along the way. Coming into the 2023 Triple Crown, it’s a must-read for any fans of the races.
03
Ruffian: A Racetrack Romance
by Jane Schwartz
Ruffian was one of the most dominant racehorses of her time, and this book explores her life and tragic death. The book also delves into the culture of horse racing in the 1970s, as well as the people who were involved in the sport. It is an engaging and emotional read that will remain with you long after you finish reading it. This is a must-read for everyone.
04
The Horse God Built: The Untold Story of Secretariat, the World’s Greatest Racehorse
by Lawrence Scanlan
This biography explores Secretariat’s life and career in great detail and also delves into the lives of the people who were instrumental in his success. It is an entertaining book, full of anecdotes and insights into a fascinating world of horse racing, and is a must-read for anyone who has any interest in the sport.
05
Black Caviar: The Horse of a LifetimeGerard Whateley
Black Caviar: The Horse of a Lifetime
by Gerard Whateley
Black Caviar is one of the most successful racehorses in history, and this book tells her story in great detail. The book explores the horse’s remarkable career, as well as the people who were involved in her success. It’s a fascinating and inspiring read that will appeal to anyone who loves horse racing.
06
Red Rum: The Biography
by Ivor Herbert
You’ll struggle to find a more well-known racehorse than Red Rum, and this book tells his story in great detail. The only horse to ever win the Grand National twice, the book explores the horse’s remarkable career, as well as the people who were involved in his success. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves the history of horse racing and fancy a trip to England to dive into their elusive world of horses.
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