Gaudenzia, Pride of the Palio

"Gaudenzia, Pride of the Palio" by Marguerite Henry is a story set in the heart of Siena, Italy; it follows Giorgio Terni's quest to become an animal trainer against the backdrop of the Palio horse race. The story shows Giorgio's journey, starting as a young boy who is disturbed by mistreatment of animals and finding new appreciation of the bond between humans and animals when he meets Gaudenzia, a half-bred Arabian mare. Giorgio gains inspiration from the Umbrella Man, a tinker, and his dream turns to reality when he decides to train horses and participate in the Palio.