Eighty- Dollar Champion : Snowman, The Horse That Inspired A Nation by Elizabeth Letts

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

The captivating and exhilarating tale of an extraordinary man and his remarkable horse, an unlikely pair whose remarkable journey to fame in the world of show jumping deeply moved the entire nation.

When Harry de Leyer first laid eyes on the horse he would come to know as Snowman, fate intervened. Snowman was being transported on a truck destined for the slaughterhouse, a mere shadow of his former self. However, the perceptive Dutch immigrant recognized a glimmer of spirit in the weary animal’s eyes, and for a mere eighty dollars, he became Snowman’s rescuer.

Transforming his modest farm on Long Island into a training ground, Harry devoted himself tirelessly to unlocking Snowman’s true potential. Against all odds, the duo defied the greatness of thoroughbreds worth a fortune, conquering one show at a time to rise to the pinnacle of show jumping.

This compelling narrative, steeped in the backdrop of Cold War-era America, resonated deeply with a nation yearning for stories of unwavering hope and unimaginable triumph. A tale symbolizing the indomitable human spirit and the chance to achieve the extraordinary. Harry and Snowman were the ultimate underdogs, defying the odds and etching their names into the annals of legend.

The $80 Champion: A Tale of Perseverance and Triumph

The 80 Champion Snowman: The Horse that Inspired a Nation

Elizabeth Letts presents a captivating and heartwarming true story in “The 80 Champion Snowman”. This narrative skillfully weaves together themes of perseverance, determination, and the power of the human-animal bond, creating a compelling tale that resonates with readers.

A Remarkable Partnership

The book explores the extraordinary partnership between Harry DeLeyer, a Dutch immigrant and horse trainer, and Snowman, a former plow horse destined for the slaughterhouse. Despite struggling to make ends meet, DeLeyer takes a chance on this discarded horse, sensing something special in him.

Triumph Against All Odds

Letts adeptly examines the profound impact Snowman’s journey has on DeLeyer and the broader community. Snowman’s rise from obscurity to becoming a renowned show jumper is a testament to his indomitable spirit and the transformative power of belief.

An Immersive Experience

Letts’ engaging and immersive writing style allows readers to form a deep connection with the characters and their experiences. Through vivid descriptions and meticulous attention to detail, she brings the equestrian world of the 1950s and 1960s to life.

The Human-Animal Bond

One of the book’s notable strengths lies in its exploration of the human-animal bond. Letts beautifully captures the profound connection between DeLeyer and Snowman, emphasizing the trust and mutual respect that underpins their relationship.

Inspiration and Resilience

Set against the backdrop of post-World War II America, the book symbolizes hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Snowman’s unlikely rise to stardom becomes a source of inspiration for a nation grappling with its own challenges.

A Poignant and Uplifting Tale

“The 80 Champion Snowman” is a poignant and uplifting tale that celebrates the triumph of the underdog. Letts’ masterful storytelling and ability to capture the essence of the human-animal bond create a truly memorable reading experience.