by John R. Barlotta

Retired U.S. Secret Service special agent John R. Barletta shows us a side of Reagan that we sensed was there, but it's nice to hear some of the details. We've seen photos of Ronald Reagan astride his white horse at his Santa Barbara ranch. And we could have guessed that Reagan preferred to ride high-energy Thoroughbreds to more laid-back breeds.

But this behind-the-scenes book tells us about Reagan tacking up horses for the Secret Service, since initially none of the agents knew how to ride. We hear something of what goes on to prepare for him to ride while on a trip to Mexico and at Windsor Castle in England. And we learn of his love of the land, his appreciation of nature and his interactions with his family, friends and staff.

I appreciated the horseman's ethic he represented — things like taking care of your horse before yourself after a long ride, keeping tack clean, and caring about how tack fits or how the horse is tied to the hitching post.

I found myself thinking how much politeness and a sense of humor have to do with being an effective, tactful rider, and I came away thinking I could do with being a little more like Reagan when I'm at the barn.I think you'll find yourself smiling as you read this book, no matter where you stand on the politics of the time.

Published by KensingtonPublishing Co.

www.kensingtonbooks.com