Luck of the Draw
by Diana Tuorto
Published by BookSurge Publishing (July 29 release)
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Reviewed by Harold N. Walters
Luck of the Draw is narrated by Lucky himself. Born with the possibility of becoming a racehorse—albeit the off-spring of “the two worst racehorses to ever escape the slaughterhouse”—Lucky kicks[!] off his story by summing up his racing career in one word: pathetic.
Soon after leaving his mother, Lucky’s natural enthusiasm is reined in by sobering realities. He learns that a racehorse can stumble on the track and suffer an injury that leads to tragedy. Despite his willing eagerness, he learns that “giving his all” isn’t always good enough to secure a niche in racing circles.
At each hurdle Lucky encounters he does his best, he gives his all, yet oftentimes, although he never falters, he fails to clear the top rail, literally and figuratively. In the face of increasing frustration, Lucky wants to be “good at something.” Don’t we all?
Diana Tuorto has anthropomorphized Lucky, allowing him to tell his own story and permitting him to reveal his personality in a style that will be appealing to young readers. After losing a race and watching the champion horse being led into the winner’s circle, Lucky confesses to being “completely embarrassed.” Certain twelve-year-old readers, no doubt, will be able to identify with Lucky’s emotion. In another instance Lucky feels “disappointed” in himself when he is unable to express comfort to the trainer he believes he has failed.
Tuorto’s narrative method is designed to translate the adventures of a young horse into a learning experience for readers. Dare I say that Luck of the Draw is designed to teach universal truths as well as spin a yarn in the tradition of Black Beauty? Yes, I dare.
For readers unfamiliar with the world of thoroughbreds, Luck of the Draw is informative. For instance, I am a novice to the horse ring. After reading this novel I now know what these words mean: crossties, lunge, and dressage. Read this book. Find out if Lucky discovers his life’s purpose. See if he is satisfied that “the best thing for the inside of a horse is the outside of a barn.”
Armchair Interviews says: A wonderful story for young readers—and especially for those who love horses.