Book SummaryHorses Don't Fly, by Frederick Libby

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of Horses Don't Fly

The protagonist's early life and escapades unfolded across the western regions of America.

This autobiographical work explores the author's developmental years in the challenging setting of the American West, emphasizing the unique skills and values he developed during his youth. Frederick Libby's time spent as a cowboy significantly shaped his character and prepared him to face upcoming challenges.

Frederick Libby's early years were spent in the rugged American West where he honed his horsemanship and became adept at breaking wild horses on his family's property.

Libby recounts experiences from his early days on a Colorado homestead, where he developed his skills as a ranch hand, becoming adept at horseback riding, roping, and breaking wild horses. His encounters fostered a robust dedication to hard work, self-sufficiency, and a profound respect for equine companions. He regarded horses as intelligent and faithful partners, underscoring the strong connection shared between humans and animals.

Libby warmly remembers the period he dedicated to learning how to gentle wild horses, guided by his older brother, Bud. He emphasizes the necessity of showing forbearance and comprehension to gain a horse's confidence and esteem. Frederick Libby earned recognition for his exceptional skill in subduing a collection of wild horses on behalf of a client who needed them for polo matches.

Libby shares tales of his youthful escapades, which feature interactions with untamed creatures and playful tricks he carried out alongside his companions.

Libby's autobiography vividly captures his early adventures, embodying the energy and spirit characteristic of the American frontier. He shares humorous stories of his mischievous adventures with the King children, featuring a moment when their "Hoky Poky" antics frightened horses, resulting in an overturned wagon scattering provisions all around.

He also recounts his experiences among untamed creatures, evoking the allure and peril of the frontier. Frederick Libby's adventurous attempt to rope a grazing antelope close to his home resulted in a lively chase across the terrain and a humorous exchange with his dad. These occurrences highlight Libby's growing understanding of the complexities inherent in nature and his intense eagerness for discovery.

Practical Tips

• Create a themed photo series that captures the spirit of exploration and adventure. Use your smartphone or camera to take pictures that represent your interpretation of the 'American frontier' today. This could be landscapes, urban environments, or portraits of people who embody the pioneering spirit. Share these photos on social media or with friends to start conversations about modern-day adventures and frontiers.
• Use storytelling as a method to teach lessons or values in an entertaining way. When faced with a teachable moment, instead of lecturing, relate a personal anecdote that illustrates the lesson you want to convey. This approach can make the moral of the story more memorable and impactful.
• Create a simple game with friends where you act out various scenarios that could potentially cause surprise or alarm, and then discuss the reactions. This game could involve one person mimicking an unexpected event while the others act as bystanders. Afterwards, you can have a conversation about how the 'event' made you feel and why, which helps in understanding the impact of startling situations like the overturned wagon.
• Engage with stories...

Horses Don't Fly Summary Libby's experiences and duties while serving in the Royal Flying Corps during the Great War

In this segment of the story, we witness how Libby evolves from his duties on the ranch to becoming a wartime aviator. He narrates his journey from enlisting in the armed forces to mastering the challenges that came with transforming from an equestrian to a distinguished and skilled pilot.

In 1914, Libby joined the military forces of Canada and later advanced to a position in the Royal Flying Corps, serving in capacities as both a pilot and an observer.

In the city of Alberta, Libby, on a whim, joined the Canadian Army with his companion Russell Brown. Initially drawn to the thrill of venturing into uncharted territories, Libby joins a group tasked with overseeing motorized vehicles, destined for service in France.

Eager to escape the unrelenting dampness and mud, Libby seizes the opportunity to enlist in the Royal Flying Corps (RFC), initially taking on reconnaissance duties prior to earning his wings as a pilot. Frederick Libby's life shifted dramatically from the familiar surroundings of a ranch, with its horses and cattle, to engaging in aerial combat, a domain he had never experienced before.

During his early training and while serving as a reconnaissance...

Horses Don't Fly Summary The writer's narrative encompasses his choice to engage in battle, his encounters during combat, and his post-war tribulations.

The narrative delves into the way the conflict molded the author's perspective and its lasting impact on his life. Libby's initial naivety is shattered as he faces the harsh truths of warfare, grappling with the horrors he witnessed and the personal losses he suffered. He also emphasizes the difficulties he encountered while transitioning back to life outside the military, which had an impact on him both physically and mentally.

Frederick Libby joined the armed forces without a complete understanding of the implications his participation in the conflict would bring.

Initially, Libby did not fully comprehend the significance of the global conflict. Eager to explore new horizons and embark on exciting exploits, he joined the military forces of Canada, unaware of the grim realities that combat would present.

Frederick Libby's naivete is amusingly evident when he remarks on his recruitment, observing, "They initiated the conflict at a time that matched exactly with our state of readiness. Events are perpetually unfolding. Excitement was a constant companion in life. Numerous youths, fueled by energy and hope, enlisted without fully grasping the substantial consequences that...

Horses Don't Fly Summary The writer imparts his understanding of the dogfights that occurred in the French heavens during the First World War

In this part of the narrative, Libby offers his distinctive insights into the aerial conflict over France, detailing his views on the strategies, advancements in equipment, and the characters that played a role. He elaborates on the constantly evolving nature of flight technology, underscoring its pivotal influence in determining the trajectory of the conflict.

Frederick Libby offers a deep understanding of the tactics, advancements in technology, and personality studies related to the British Royal Flying Corps and their counterparts in Germany.

Libby offers an insightful examination of how strategies for combat in the skies evolved during the First World War. He narrates the evolution of air battles from simple reconnaissance missions to complex operations that included bombardment missions, dogfights in the sky, and low-flying attack runs. He underscores the pivotal importance of aerial surveillance and photography, recounting his experiences in mapping key targets like Valenciennes, a crucial railway hub for the German forces that was of immense importance to the Allied effort.

He also highlights the rapid advancements in aviation technology, noting the significant...

Horses Don't Fly Summary The author's life was deeply influenced by the relationships and connections established during the periods before the war, throughout the conflict, and after its conclusion.

The book provides an in-depth look at the pivotal figures and connections that shaped his character and guided him through the challenges of war and the time that followed. He reveals the importance of familial bonds, the enduring strength of wartime friendships, and the impact of individuals who crossed his path, offering kindness and support during crucial moments.

Frederick Libby's growth and support network were significantly influenced by his close relationships with his father, brother, and aunt.

Frederick Libby cherishes the memories of his father, his sibling Bud, and his beloved Aunt Josephine, who he fondly refers to as Aunt Jo. He credits his father for instilling in him the core values of honesty and integrity, as well as the ability to appreciate humor. His involvement was crucial in enhancing his abilities as a horse rider, offering steadfast guidance and support.

Frederick Libby fondly remembered the time he was nurtured by his Aunt Jo in Massachusetts, highlighting the importance of family ties in his formative years and the lasting impact she had on his life. Frederick Libby finds solace and a sense of belonging in the relationships he builds, providing a...