ELAINE Heney’s Irish Twist on Black Beauty will debut at the National Ploughing Championships next week. The celebrated Irish equestrian author plans to delight readers at the Co Laois venue with her new book, The Galway Connemara. Inspired by the timeless classic Black Beauty, this heartfelt book follows the life of Lir, an Irish Connemara pony.

The Galway Connemara is an account of Irish modern-day horse training knowledge and practices. Through Lir’s eyes, readers learn the importance of treating animals with empathy, kindness and respect.

So far, the book has received rave reviews around the world. With its mixture of high drama and horsemanship life lessons, this Connemara pony story is a must-read for readers aged 12 and above and all horse owners and riders.

“The Galway Connemara is a very special book inspired by Black Beauty. I hope that it inspires young readers and equestrians to listen to their horses, and to always treat horses with respect, patience and understanding,” explained Heney.