From a renowned horsewoman and gifted storyteller comes this groundbreaking new book that explores a powerful relationship like no other: the magical kinship between women and horses. Drawing from myth and literature, the author's own experiences, and interviews with countless women, we learn, through women's deeply personal stories, how horses enrich our lives and connect us to nature-making us readers of rhythm and invisible signs, helping us harness our youthful sexuality, sharing the "horsepower" we need to reach our dreams. And here we see how, for thousands of years, the deep kinship between women and horses has connected us to our most intimate feelings of delight, helped us learn to solve problems, and set our creativity free. From the poetry of Geoffrey Chaucer to the fiction of Jane Austen to folktales from around the world, She Flies Without Wings uses great literature and myth to encompass a wide spectrum of beliefs and perspectives-and creates a true celebration of speed, air, and the spectacular animal that connects us with both. Filled with the moving lessons--about sensuality, commitment, power, nurturance, and spirituality-women riders have known for centuries, written with a loving hand by an expert equestrian, She Flies Without Wings is an eloquent paean to a pairing that enlivened history, inspired literature, and continues to enchant us all.
I loved this book, and yes, I am a horsewoman! However, thus said, I don't think a person has to be a horsewoman to enjoy this book thoroughly. It is very insightful, it deals with many issues and topics dear to women, it makes one think. It is a very good read. I found myself not wanting it to end; loved reading about Theo's progress, and about her and the author's bonding. As an owner of more than 20 show horses and school horses in my lifetime, not to mention the 100 or so racehorses I have trained - now retired and "totally dedicated" to a Morgan mare with a "former" attitude, I could relate to every aspect of the author's encounters with Theo. I'm married, have children, grandchildren, a full life... but it would be life with a void without horses. This book is indeed about how horses touch a woman's soul. As a horsewoman and author, I give this book two-thumbs up!
A Blessing of a Book!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 21 years ago
With uncanny insight and wisdom Ms.Midkiff has put eloquently into words the very emotions I have experienced my past 25 years with horses. This book has touched me and made me even more aware of the gifts I receive on a daily basis. As she so simply and profoundly states in this book - "When I ride [my mare] her unity with the outside world is so absolute that I have no choice but to follow her into it. I must stop thinking about deadlines and the grocery list... because they have no place the the world my equine guide is showing me. I can't help but open my eyes to what she sees and my ears to what she hears. I note the flicker of a cottontail disappearing into the brush ahead and hear the call of the meadowlark before spotting it. I swim in her quiet." Bravo, Ms. Midkiff! Though we have never met I am certain we are of the same herd. Thank you for such an inspiring read!
a wonderful read
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
This was a truly delightful read. I have also read Midkiff's Fitness Performance and the Female Equestrian (also a good book to read), but this book really explores the connection between women and horses. It is obvious that she really loves horses. A good book to curl up with.
An Epiphany
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
This lyric, profound, spiritual book makes the heart of all horsepeople, female or male, truly fly without wings. You and your horse may gallop through the canyons of Wyoming or the parks of Manhattan, Midkiff's prose will enhance your journey.
You Will Fly Too
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
In reading "She Flies Without Wings", being a horselover, and owner, and a woman, the author did a wonderful job in descriptions and feelings. I kept reading paragraphs over and over again, as it is like poetry. Very poetic, very true in relating to our magnificant, graceful, powerful, beasts. I do not want to part with my book, so I have ordered this book for my horseloving women friends. It is a book one can read over and over again, and still enjoy. I envy the first time one reads "She Flies Without Wings,"; I was flying and without wings! Janie Lester
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