Laura Hillenbrand's Seabiscuit

Essay Options:

  1. In what ways is the horse Seabiscuit symbolic of the American Dream?
  2. In what ways is Seabiscuit a hero? What makes him such a lovable one?
  3. The Great Match Race between Seabiscuit and War Admiral in 1938 evoked heated partisan passions. These passions spilled over on radio and into the daily prints, with each colt leading a raucous legion of followers to the barrier at Pimlico Race Course that autumn day. What were the differences separating these two horses, and what did each competitor represent in the American experience that set one apart from the other?
  4. Discuss the terrible hardships and hazards jockeys faced during the 1930’s. Why, in spite of this, did they go on with their careers? What were the allures of race riding that led them to subject themselves to such risk and torment?
  5. What was the role of the press and radio in the Seabiscuit phenomenon? How did Howard use the media to his advantage? How did the media help Seabiscuit’s career, and how was it a hindrance?
  6. Seabiscuit possessed all the qualities for which the Thoroughbred has been prized since the English imported the breed’s three foundation sites from the Middle East three hundred years ago. What were those qualities? What made this horse a winner?
  7. Red Pollard, Tom Smith, and Charles Howard formed an unlikely partnership. In what ways were these men different? How did their differences serve as an asset to them?
  8. Other with approval.

Extra Credit Options:

  1. An essay option above not chosen previously.
  2. Contrast the book with the movie. Which is superior?
  3. Explain why someone with no interest in horses would still find this book enjoyable.
  4. Create a poster.
  5. Design an original book cover.
  6. Other with approval.

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