"Evocative ...A compelling, meticulosly crafted narrative". — Chicago Tribune

"A stunning memoir ... Quitely heartbreaking yet inspiring". — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

Out of the frenzied pace of bustling New York, aspiring artist Michael Klein sets off for the racetracks of the Midwest in pursuit of his lover — and into the exotic, incomparable world of horse racing. While grooming horses in the cool, hay-scented stalls, Klein searches for salvation — from the memories of a sexually abusive stepfather, his mother's sudden death, the demon of drink and sexual addiction . . . even himself. Then one remarkable horse enters his life. And through the innocent ritual of caring for Swale, an incredible Kentucky Derby — winning colt, Klein's life is suddenly transformed forever.

"Track Conditions" is an unusually powerful, unsparing memoir of one troubled man's unforgettable healing connection to an extraordinary horse. Told in strikingly honest prose, his story of finding redemption is one you will never forget.

As moving as The Liar's Club, as evocative as The Man Who Listens to Horses, "Track Conditions" is a winner.

A superb, acclaimed memoir of one man's harrowing life — and his healing bond with a champion racehorse.

Out of the frenzied pace of bustling New York, aspiring artist Michael Klein sets off for the racetracks of the Midwest in pursuit of his lover--and into the exotic, incomparable world of horse racing. While grooming horses in the cool, hay-scented stalls, Klein searches for salvation--from the memories of a sexually abusive stepfather, his mother's sudden death, the demon of
drink and sexual addiction . . . even himself. Then one remarkable horse enters his life. And through the innocent ritual of caring for Swale, an incredible Kentucky Derby-winning colt, Klein's life is suddenly, by almost miraculous means, transformed forever.

In strikingly honest prose, Track Conditions is an unusually powerful, unsparing memoir of one troubled man's unforgettable healing connection to an extraordinary horse. His story of finding redemption is one you will never forget.