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Pie: An Old Brown Horse

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  Who Decides When a Horse Is No Longer Useful?
This five star Readers' Favorite is the story of  Pie, a working ranch horse well past retirement age. When he was injured, he was considered used up, with nothing left to give. At the mercy of those who owned him, he was sent off to be sold or destroyed, depending on his ability to recover. But Pie knew something the ranch owners didn't he was far from useless. This book tells the story of a horse who still had heart and soul and strength to give, and shares the amazing things he did in the second part of his life. Pie is truly one of the great horses, and you will get to know him and his amazing spirit as he tells you his tale as only he can, from his point of view. You'll be among the many people whose lives he touched, as you join his remarkable journey to prove that every animal deserves the chance to age with grace and wisdom.

158 pages, Paperback

First published November 8, 2012

301 people want to read

About the author

Kandy Kay Scaramuzzo

2 books16 followers
Kandy Kay Scaramuzzo is a seventh generation Texan who has her own brick at the Cowgirl Museum. She has taught in alternative education for over twenty years. Ms. Scaramuzzo is a member of the 2012 Strathmore's Who's Who. She has a BA in Criminology and a MAedCT. She works in horse,dog, cat and snake rescues. Ms. Scaramuzzo has been a tester observer for therapy dogs for nine years. She ran a therapy horse program for autistic children for five years. She has been a recognized animal behaviorist for over twenty years. This is her first book about an exceptional horse. She feels it is important to give back to maintain the balance of a civilized society.

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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Profile Image for Jonel.
1,717 reviews311 followers
June 17, 2013
With this novel Scaramuzzo takes a very unique (yet realistic) outlook on the horse-rider dynamic. She also illustrates the diversity and discrepancy in the equine industry. Above all, I commend Scaramuzzo on always using the correct equine and equestrian terminology throughout the novel. It really adds to the mystique of the story.

This is an extremely well written novel. It has a brilliant flow that you find yourself falling into. Everything is presented in light of the fact that she is helping Pie tell his story. Therefore, the story is written in a straightforward and matter of fact fashion that keeps you completely captivated.

The characters in this novel are all phenomenally well developed and easy to relate to. I can so picture my big brown, but not so old yet, ranch bred horse saying these things. The outlook that Pie presents on life is so realistic that you find yourself completely wrapped up in the story. The different equine reactions to things are spot on, and everyone who knows horses can relate. They characters are also quite well developed. You get to know everyone very well. You know where they came from and why they react how they do.

As a whole, this was a phenomenal read. This novel made me laugh so hard that I fell off my chair. Everything is so realistic yet off the wall that you can’t help but laugh at some of the situations that Scaramuzzo presents in this story. It also brought tears to my eyes at times, and made me full out laugh at others.

Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Author 7 books7 followers
March 3, 2013
Writing a story in the first person is not uncommon, but when that first person is a horse, well, I really wasn't expecting it to actually be entertaining to say the least. Thankfully since I have such a huge admiration and respect for horses, I decided to give it a read. What a pleasant and thoroughly enjoyable story this is.

The title is a little misleading. Pie may be an old brown horse now, but he was nothing of the sort during the story. Kandy brought that personable horse to life like he was almost one of us. As we all know, animals have feelings, thoughts and ways to communicate just like we do. Even though some, and maybe a lot of people, don't think about this in a very in depth way, Kandy proves that to be our oversight and sadly our loss. Because as you read the story, the thoughts, and emotions of how Kandy presented these majestic animals is nothing short of enthralling, entertaining, and enlightening.

Sometimes you just had to laugh out loud, as Pie literally thought like an animal would at our crazy antics, and his simplistic and natural understanding of how life just is. We make it complicated, and they bring it back to basics and fun.

Reading about Pie and his story made you really wish you could have gotten to know him, even enjoyed some of the same events with him. To have known and spent time with him would have been a cherished privilege. Knowing the owners of Pie could teach all of us the meaning of unconditional love.

As you learn from this book, taking care of a horse or more, is not for the faint of heart. It is work, money, time, and emotion, but the rewards are so much greater than what is given, that the comparison is actually impossible. For those who do it and have done it, like the owners of Pie, they wouldn't trade it for the world.

Pie calls the owner, keeper. His love, thankfulness, appreciation and admiration of keeper is obvious, and just as obvious is, it's well deserved. I am sure the keeper is the author, and I am sure you will see, as I did, that the spirit of the keeper is nothing short of incredible. It is apparent that unconditional love is as central to her core as the automatic beating of her heart. People like this should be respected and emulated. Pie knew this and showed her and his charge, little one just how much love he had to give back.

This story should be read by everyone, and really should be a required reading in schools everywhere. It is not only enjoyable and entertaining; it is educational in more ways than you can imagine. Thanks for the privilege of reading and writing a review of your book Kandy. It was a great pleasure.
Profile Image for A.E. Curzon.
Author 1 book74 followers
August 17, 2013
This is a marvellous story, told through the eyes of Pie (the old brown horse) himself. Pie had worked all his life on ranches until, having been gored by a bull and tangled in wire, he was left to languish in a small pen to recover or die. His working career as a cattle herder, and possibly his life, was over. He was no longer of any use to anyone, added to which he was already past retirement age. Then, having been bought by a livery keeper for resale, Pie's life changed. A young girl came to know him well, and, having had an unfortunate experience with another horse, decided she wanted to buy him. From there he was brought back into work, a much gentler sort, and made useful again. This story takes the reader through the trials and tribulations of Pie’s life from the time he was gored until he is fully established as a therapy horse for autistic children, and on to his life as it is today.

Despite my passion for horses, I have to admit, I had no idea how things worked in Pie's first life, and rather enjoyed reading about it. The lot of a cattle herding horse is a fairly hard one by all accounts, with few comforts to speak of. That is not to say they are mistreated in any way; it is just hard work, long hours and few luxuries. I strongly suspect the lot of a cowboy is just as tough. All of which is wonderfully and humorously described in the text. Kandy Scaramuzzo has her own free-flowing style of writing, which I found rather endearing, through which her inordinate love of horses, and her way of life, shines through on every page. The written interpretation of the communication between the horses tells us a lot about the authors understanding of them and their behaviour. The scene setting is perfect and the characters, both human and equine, are all vividly and entertainingly described in this heart-warming tale.

The story of this remarkable horse touched my heart and I am pleased it has been told. Cleverly written from Pie's unique perspective, the reader is not only able to get to know Pie; a horse whose demeanour is bursting with courage, understanding and a sense of what is right, but also learn that all things have their place in life. Pie shows us that being old does not mean being without worth. Brimming over with enthusiasm and ever eager to please, he displays compassion and understanding in all things. And, there is no doubt - he does know exactly what he is doing. His loyalty to the herd, especially those he is close to, is to be admired. His assessment of them and all their individual peculiarities seems spot on, and he always tries to do his best for them. Plus, he's a hoot. He is certainly an extraordinary horse who has impacted on many lives with these attributes. In fact, his whole disposition made him the perfect choice to place with children who have special needs.

Pie's enlightening memoirs are a wonderful eye-opener into the fascinating mind of this intelligent, heroic and warm-hearted old horse. I am just sorry I will never be able to meet him in the flesh.

To focus on any negatives here, such as editing issues - as I see some have done - would be totally unproductive; there are far too many positives. This is simply a splendid read for everyone, horsey or not, and I highly recommend it.

This review is also published on my blog at http://ameliacurzonblogger.wordpress....
Profile Image for Charlie Bray.
Author 7 books28 followers
February 21, 2013
Pie narrates this story, a true story about his very full and varied life, an autobiography if you like.

Pie would not be out of place as a guest on one of Piers Morgan Life Stories, and would certainly be more interesting than some who have trodden that hallowed path.

We are treated to all aspects of the horse's personality. We are there with him when he firmly trains a young horse in the art of wrangling. We are there when he gets into a gory battle with an enraged bull.

We share his joy as he makes a new friend, Dusty, and finds a new owner, a young girl who he refers to as 'the little one'. We share his grief when he loses his best pal to a brain tumour.

Pie introduces us to many other horses during this tale, all different, all interesting in their own way, some having pet hates, pardon the pun, such as snakes, some suffering from mishaps they had encountered in the past. Often their owners did nor realise the problems that their horses were suffering from, and it was left to the horses and their friends to assert themselves.

All in all, an interesting introduction to a horse's world. A book which horse lovers of all ages, and there are lots of them, will enjoy.

For me, who can take or leave a horse (don't tell Tesco that), an easy going romp, which whilst leaving me with a pretty decent feel good factor, did not tax my emotions as much as I would have liked.
1 review
January 1, 2013
I was lucky enough to read this book before Christmas. It was AWESOME! I promptly ordered it for all my friends for Christmas. They all loved it! This is a book for everyone. You do not have to be familiar with horses to love it. It is a story of redemption, friendships, love and relationships. After you read this book, you feel really good. We need more feel good books. I can't wait to see what Pie is up to next! He is quite the character and since the story is told in his voice, you get to know him quite well. There is nothing in this book to offend or upset anyone, it is an all around good read. Loved the book!Pie: An Old Brown Horse
1 review1 follower
January 9, 2013
This story is a jewel! All about the life of a remarkable horse and told from the horse's point of view. Charming, funny and insightful, this tale is entirely based on real events.
Profile Image for Bobbie Grob.
140 reviews16 followers
January 27, 2013
This is a really sweet story about a horse and its people, told from the horse's point-of-view. I enjoyed the story immensely!
Profile Image for Daniel Farcaș.
Author 50 books85 followers
April 30, 2015
A lovely book! Pie is about getting a second chance and empathy.
Profile Image for J.T. Brown.
Author 12 books19 followers
May 3, 2013
This is a book that all horse lovers and owners should read. Not only is it in a horse’s point of view but it tells many different stories of not one horse’s life, but many others as well. Pie is a special horse, his past was fulfilled but unfortunate to have had such an ordeal happen to him. All in all, some things happen for a reason and it sends not only humans in the right direction, but horses too. He was destined to meet his “Little One.” His life was fulfilled once again, but with the love of a little girl. He has imprinted his life fully on so many and lives a legacy for many others to follow.

Pie not only made a difference in many families’ lives, but as well in many horse’s lives. He knows his job and meets every obligation to the fullest, but still stands back and recognizes what is happening around him. His life story will not only become a treasure for many horses, but for many people as well. He sees things in a special way, a way that is told from wisdom.

This book is so special because it not only has a wonderful tale, but lots of helpful information too. Any horse owner can recognize the care routines, and the different personalities of many horses. Horses have so much under that beautiful image they hold, they are so much more. The author really captured the care and strategies that it takes to be a horse owner. What it takes to have the compassion for horses.
I love the details about all the different horses and how the author gives the descriptions at the end of the book. You feel as though you are at the stable watching all of the horses share and grow their lives together.

I am so glad that Pie’s story has been told, for he will always carry a legend in my heart.
Profile Image for Amanda Shelley-Masters.
437 reviews21 followers
October 11, 2013
Lily says:

This book is about a old brown horse named pie who survives a fatal attack by a bull.

my favourite picture in the book is the one at the back with durango and little one.

My favourite part was when when dusty took off with the keeper on his neck.we laughed and laughed and laughed.

I felt bad for Pie when he got attacked by the bull but as the book went on it got happier.

I learned that is a very strong and stubborn horse! and I also learned alot about the other horses who were Pie's friends.

I think that everybody would like it. it's a awesome story and I think that everyone should have a horse named Pie! Kandy is the
best author ever!

Mom Says:

I loved reading this story with my daughter! it was so full of passion and purpose. Kandy really out did herself with this book, it was so full of heart, laughter, friends and family.

this is the story of Pie, a ranch horse who was attacked by and bull and severely damaged. He is sold to a new stable and not expected to recover, miraculously however he does!

Kandy Kay Scaramuzzo tells the story in the eyes of Pie, you learn about his pride, his gentle nature and most of all the deep love that develops between him and his rider little one.

Pie is a journey of laughter, love and the unshakeable spirit of the best horse I have ever had the pleasure to read about!

I really enjoyed all the horses in the stable but I have to say the antics of the keeper and her horse were the best! my daughter and I laughed and laughed countless times! This story has so much heart and so much spirit you never want to put it down!

I highly recommend this to all the families out there! it is a journey you will not want to miss out on!

Profile Image for Paul.
334 reviews
March 3, 2015
Full disclosure: I received a “FirstReads” copy of this book through GoodReads.
My Dad grew up on a farm, and so, when I was a little boy, there were horses at my Grandpa’s house, including a ¾ horse that had once been a racing champion. The title character, Pie, is a horse that was a lot like my Grandpa’s “Happy Jack” – a horse that still had usefulness in his later years. This is what attracted me to the story.
In this story, Pie is the first person (or first horse?) narrator, and he tells of how he was brought in to work as a therapy horse, and he tells of the pecking order among the horses. He also chronicles the comings and goings –some natural, some tragic – of the other horses and animals at the ranch of the human who wrote Pie’s memoir for him. We also get to see the human’s family grow up peripherally.
Pie is an exceptional horse, and his story is quite compelling, but where the human who wrote the book is a therapist to many animals, I would enjoy seeing more similar works from her.
If you are not a horse-loving person, you might not think, at a glance, that this book would be compelling, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm grateful to the author for the chance to read the book, and I apologize for not reviewing the book sooner.
Profile Image for Michael Hebler.
Author 17 books51 followers
July 14, 2013
Pie, a ranch horse, suffers from an external mid-life crisis where he is injured after a brief encounter with a rowdy bull. Too damaged to continue his work, he is “put out to pasture” where the second phase of his life begins, which is surprisingly better than his first.

Pie is a multi-layered memoir about second changes, perseverance, and the power of bonding. Author Scaramuzzo has craftily managed to write an effective, feel-good book despite highlighted tragedy throughout. Told entirely through the point of view of Pie, this ordinary old brown horse shares his optimistic outlooks, fears, and subtle humor, as though the reader had stumbled upon his personal diary that he kept hidden at the back of his stable. Along the way, he meets a cast of characters, both human and animal, where they inspire and enlighten each other’s worlds.

This is not only a remarkable story on its own, but any lover of animals who understands the personal connection that is shared between pet and owner will have a heightened appreciation as Scaramuzzo expertly focuses on the importance of connections and interactions that both animal and human inherently give to one another. Pie is a regenerative tale for all ages.
Profile Image for Janice Spina.
Author 53 books111 followers
March 2, 2014
Pie is a wonderful old brown horse that captures your heart as his keeper tells his story through Pie's eyes. After a serious injury he sustained from a bull he was tossed aside and considered useless. But Pie did not think of himself as being useless. He knew he had a lot of living to do and a lot to give to others. He is a very special horse who through his kind and caring manner helps other horses and a young girl each find their way.

He befriended other horses and taught them how to behave as horses should. He took part in play day by letting handicapped children ride him and kept them safely on his saddle. He was unselfish in everything that he did and thought of other's feelings before his own.

Pie still lives and is now nearing his late 30's. He is comfortably retired but still wants to contribute in any way he can.
This story is an inspiring story of the courage, resilience and heart of a truly extraordinary horse. It is a story for all ages to read and enjoy. The Keeper is an incredible equestrian and human being demonstrated by her kindness and dedication to all the horses she raised and cared for and which she continues to do to this day.

I highly recommend this award-winning book!
Profile Image for Christine bonner.
188 reviews5 followers
November 23, 2013
This is a book about a brown horse called Pie,who tells his story of his second life with The Keeper, Sire and Little One,

Pie was a working ranch horse tell he was past retirement age, he went with the keeper to a new place to life,

He meets a load of new friends and starts making friends with Little One and the who was very shy, she starts talking to to Pie and a great friendship is made.

You get to meet all the other horses in the barn, and there history of why there where with the keeper,

One horse called Rebels use to have all the small critters that start sleeping in his hay.
It also tells of the ones that went to horsey heaven and how the other horses felt when that happen.

Pie is full of heart and soul and he helps a lot of children with his horse therapy and the shows he did.

Kandy Kay Scaramuzzo sent me the book to read and i loved it
Profile Image for Patrick.
Author 8 books66 followers
July 15, 2013
In the old fashioned style of the classic Black Beauty, this story unfolds from a horse-eye-perspective. Pie is a skilled cattle horse who survives near death injuries while corralling a bull. He finds himself discarded by the cowboys that have been the corner stones of his world to be stabled and sold. However, this is by no means the end of his story but rather the beginning as he finds his human to love and continues to have amazing adventures.
The book moves at a good pace and is broken into many little horse tales. I say Bravo for Kandy Kay Scaramuzzo at capturing the mind of the horse perfectly.
This story touched my heart and I think that horse and animal lovers everywhere would enjoy the read.
Profile Image for Christine Meunier.
Author 67 books51 followers
May 9, 2013
Pie details the later years of a 38 year old horse. Written off after being gored by a bull, this working cow horse finds himself in the control of a new owner, because his previous had deemed him no longer worthwhile.Pie | an Old Brown Horse that Knows What He is Doing is a 142 page soft cover book that details how an older gelding proves how much a second chance can result in impacting many for the better.

The book is made up of 21 short chapters, told from the point of view of Pie.

Pie is an entertaining and insightful read that is suited to any age. Kids will delight in this dependable character as much as adults.
1 review
December 31, 2012
I saw this book sitting at the counter at my local feed store, read the back of it and decided to buy it.. Boy am I glad I didn't pass it up!
This is the type of book that has you catching yourself smiling and grinning while reading it, it's an all around feel good book. Once I finished reading it I had to go back to the first few pages to learn what the characters were, simply because I couldn't get enough of Pie's life story.
Do yourself a favor and pick this one up for yourself, your family and your friends!
Profile Image for Susie Sexton.
Author 2 books146 followers
August 2, 2013
Pie: An Old Brown Horse is a beautiful work in the tradition of "animal memoirs" like Black Beauty or War Horse. Told from the horse's POV with an enchanting cast of supporting characters, this book is an easy pleasure to read. The perfect book to set on your nightstand or coffee table and read at your leisure. The author has a lovely insight/empathy into the hearts and minds of our animal friends, and the book would make a wonderful introduction for young people to gain greater appreciation for all creatures great and small. Highly recommend!
22 reviews1 follower
June 26, 2013
MADE AN OLD TEXAS BOY FEEL GOOD! i grew up in a ranch and had several close friend that just happened to be hoses and a couple of mules. This wonderful book brings back all the memories of those wonderful friends. i miss them and i feel like Pie is a new friend. I know when I cross the rainbow bridge the 4 legged friends of my youth will be there waiting and say hey Cheyenne lets go for a ride. You will love this book if you have ever had or wanted a horse for a friend.
Profile Image for Larry Hochwald.
Author 1 book44 followers
March 3, 2015
I enjoyed this book very much! It was an original concept written extremely well and entertainingly. This story written in the first person perspective of a very appealing and engaging character who happens to be a horse is exceptional! This author clearly has a feel and love for her subject and for the material. I look forward to reading what else this author has in store for us as well as any additional collaborations with her equine friend!
Profile Image for Mariana Farcas.
110 reviews8 followers
March 3, 2015
AMAZING! Pie is a 38 year old horse gored by a bull and Pie gets a new owner. The books opens a door to the horse's world and soon you start to notice things that you didn't see before sufferance but also happiness.
Pie redefines what useful means in a world that doesn't value an old brown horse.
The book is more about getting a second chance and empathy.
Profile Image for Eric.
11 reviews
May 2, 2013
I was so happy to have won this book since horses have a special place in my heart. The book was very heart felt and more than once I felt my heart strings being tugged on. A well written book with photos to match, two thumbs up.
Profile Image for Lori.
1,668 reviews
February 29, 2020
I would give this book an almost four. Pie is an old brown horse that spent his first 25 years on a ranch. He worked keeping the cattle in good order. When he is injured by an angry bull, he is sent away. He got lucky, he was adopted by good people who took him in. For many years he lived there giving rides to kids and other people who came to ride horses. The author writes the book seen through Pie's eyes. We get to read about the other horses who live there narrated by Pie. A sweet book. Glad he had a happy chance at another home. Nice book for horse lovers.
3 reviews
September 19, 2017
Wow, I enjoyed this more than i expected. I don;t read this kind of book, but a friend recommended it and i enjoyed it!
Profile Image for Krystal Milton.
Author 6 books11 followers
May 20, 2013
This made for a very interesting as well as humorous read. The story is told through the point of view of a Horse named Pie, this idea very unique and original for an Adult read. It, to me, was entertaining, informative and cute all intertwined with instances being described as only a horse’s mind could conjure.

There were instances my heart melted, tugged, broke. I was on a rollercoaster of emotions from laughter, to “Aww’s” to feeling as if I could see each occurrence through the horses eyes as if I were the horse itself.

Kandy has a neat hand writing style where it flows easily, very well written and relatable. I found I enjoyed this book, despite my first initial reaction to being unsure if I would.
Profile Image for Su Williams.
Author 7 books63 followers
March 1, 2013
I wasn't sure what I would think of story written from the POV of a horse. But Pie is no ordinary horse, and Kandy Kay Scaramuzzo is no ordinary author. Kandy weaves the compelling story of the life of an old brown horse that definitely knows what he's doing. "Pie..." was enchanting, informative, poignant, and humorous. I couldn't wait to do this review because Kandy gave me so much to work with. Definite thumbs up for Pie: An Old Brown Horse (that knows what he is doing!) Loved all the pics of Pie and his friends.
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