Seabiscuit: An American Legend, by Laura Hillenbrand

AUDIO CD Read by Campbell Scott

Seabiscuit is a great book, a true story with a plot and climax no novelist could improve on. Now, with Random House's new audio version, it's possible to enhance your road trips with the surprising, inspirational saga of the unlikeliest racehorse in history. Get ready to miss a few exits as you listen to Campbell Scott's narration. The one thing you can count on is that you won't fall asleep!

The story of an undersized horse and the unlikely alliance of men who owned, trained, and rode him, Seabiscuit is a journey into American history during one of its most challenging periods. A household name during the Great Depression, Seabiscuit offered hope and inspiration to a nation just when it was needed most. Is it really so surprising that this champion of underdogs got more newspaper ink that Roosevelt or Hitler?

If you can manage it, pass by the Santa Anita Racetrack as you listen to Seabiscuit's story. The racetrack still boasts its vintage look, and you'll be transported back to the time when the Santa Anita Handicap had a purse of $100,000, and the average per capita income of Americans was $432.

The movie version of Seabiscuit did a great job of bringing the sights and places of the Seabiscuit's era to life. If you saw and enjoyed the film, the experience will be deepened by listening to the book that inspired it. There's so much more to the story than a film can reflect. Laura Hillenbrand's detailed research provides the background, perspective, and motivation of each of the characters. Whether you're on the road or cozy by a fire, Seabiscuit will take you on a six-hour journey you won't soon forget.

Mark Sedenquist
12/21/03