This autobiography is perhaps as unique as its writer. Clare Balding has interestingly depicted her life by chapters named after the various non human personalities who have had an impact on her life.
The first of these was Candy, Clare’s mother’s boxer dog. As the book progresses through Clare’s life, the animals follow her. Achievements, ups and downs, new discoveries and the ever present attempt to find one’s worth in the world are explored with many canine and equine companions.
This book probably covers the first twenty or so years of Clare’s life. Born into a racing family, Clare was introduced to horses at a young age. It wasn’t until the age of 16 however, that she was allowed to conceive the idea of riding in hunts races that her father trained horses for. Nor does it seem that she is insistent on achieving such a thing.
In fact, as Clare details her adventures growing up, it becomes obvious that this young girl, who speaks before she thinks, is the odd one out in the family. Not only does she believe in women being equal to men, she isn’t as conservative or ‘proper’ as her parents, grandmother and younger brother would have her be. This is particularly evident when Clare makes an unexpected appearance at the dinner table whilst the Balding family are hosting a visit by the Queen, who had her horses trained by Ian Balding.
Animals Acting as an Anchor
Clare’s life sounds incredibly interesting as she grows into herself. Full of adventure, horses and dogs, it seems that it is the animals in her day to day existence that offer stability and comfort.
This is first depicted in the title of each chapter of the book. Secondly it is told in the stories that focus around these animals that the author uses to tell the tale of her life from a young age.
Now well known in the UK as a racing and sport broadcaster, Clare Balding proves through her biography that she has spent a lot of hours in the saddle, earning her right to speak on such a topic as horse racing. This author has also studied English at Cambridge University, perhaps not making it surprising that she aspired to be a writer. And so it seems, she is.
My Animals and Other Family is a biography perhaps unlike any other. It has stories that leave you incredulous and surprised, but does not lose a sense of reality. Lovers of animals and a good story should all check out Clare Balding’s book.
Many thanks to Christine Meunier for this review.
