Harvey Riley's 'The Mule: A Treatise on the Breeding, Training, and Uses to Which He May Be Put' is a comprehensive guide exploring the often-overlooked world of mules. Riley's in-depth analysis covers the history of mules, their significance in agriculture, and practical tips for breeders and trainers. Written in a straightforward and informative style, this book serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding and working with mules. Riley seamlessly weaves together anecdotal evidence, expert opinions, and scientific data to provide a well-rounded perspective on these versatile animals. His thorough examination sheds light on the vital role mules play in various industries and their adaptability to different tasks. Harvey Riley's expertise on mules stems from years of hands-on experience and research, making him a trusted authority on the subject. His passion for these animals is evident throughout the book, inspiring readers to appreciate and utilize mules in their own endeavors. 'The Mule' is a must-read for enthusiasts, professionals, and curious minds looking to expand their knowledge of these fascinating creatures.

This fourth edition of "The Mule Companion" is a comprehensive book on mules with new photos of many real people and mules doing real mule activities. "The Mule Companion" has been called an excellent 'mule primer' for those people just getting into mules. However, the book also hosts an in-depth study of why mules do what they do, their idiosyncrasies, training, and problem solving. Also, the book is rich with 'how to' information on: caring for, breeding for, fitting tack on, buying, and mule activities, past and present.

Readers captivated by this book will be happy that Bill Ferris found Ray Lum and that he thought to turn on a tape recorder. Lum (1891-1977) was a mule skinner, a livestock trader, an auctioneer, and an American original. This delightful book, first published in 1992 as “You Live and Learn. Then You Die and Forget It All,” preserves Lum's colorful folk dialect and captures the essence of this one-of-a-kind figure who seems to have stepped full-blooded from the pages of Mark Twain. This riveting tale-spinner was tall, heavy-set, and full of body rhythm as he talked. In his special world, he was famous for trading, for tale-telling, and for common-sense lessons that had made him a savvy bargainer and a shrewd businessman. His home and his auction barn were in Vicksburg, Mississippi, where mules were his main interest, but in trading he fanned out over twenty states and even into Mexico. A west Texas newspaper reported his fame this way, “He is known all over cow country for his honest, fair dealing and gentlemanly attitude. . . . A letter addressed to him anywhere in Texas probably would be delivered.” Over several years, Ferris recorded Lum's many long conversations that detail livestock auctioneering, cheery memories of rustic Deep South culture, and a philosophy of life that is grounded in good horse sense. Even among the most spellbinding talkers, Lum is a standout both for what he has to say and for the way he says it. Ferris's lucky, protracted encounters with him turn out to be the best of good fortune for everybody.

When Logan goes searching for the Perfect Monster Wave, he doesn’t expect his former best friend to be killed by it. Add to this a deadbeat dad who bankrupted his family and the possibility of college going down the drain, and Logan is suddenly in a tailspin. So when small-time dealer Broza offers Logan and his dropout pal, Z-boy, a summer job that could make them rich, it seems his problems might be solved. But between Z-boy’s constant screwups, a band of Nazi surfers out for blood, and a mysterious stranger on their tail, Logan is starting to have some serious doubts about hauling contraband across country, and hopes just to make it home alive.