NONFICTION

Alexandra the Great: The Story of the Record-Breaking Filly Who Ruled the Racetrack

by Deb ARONSON
176p. bibliog. ebook available. glossary. index. notes. photos. Chicago Review. Mar. 2017. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781613736456.
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Gr 4–7—Rejected at birth by her mother, in 2009 Alexandra became the first filly to win the Preakness Stakes; her greatness as a racehorse came as a bit of a surprise, but her enthusiasm for running and patience throughout stressful situations gained her acclaim. Jockey Calvin Borel joined the team as Alexandra began winning, and was able to stay with her through her final major race; his insight here provides context for the broader horse racing world. The story is sweet, despite the plethora of details that support every event—names, places, dates, and races threaten to overwhelm the narrative. Middle grade horse lovers may appreciate Alexandra's underdog charm, but they will likely be bogged down in exposition.
VERDICT Alexandra enjoyed a stellar and very recent career, but few tweens unfamiliar with the world of thoroughbred racing will have heard of her. Libraries in Kentucky and near race tracks may be the best market for this title.
Reviewed by Dorcas Hand, formerly at Annunciation Orthodox School, Houston , Mar 01, 2017

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