The novel 'Horse' is the story of an enslaved man grooming a winning thoroughbred Lexington was a winning thoroughbred in the mid-1800's, and the basis of Geraldine Brooks' new novel, "Horse." Scott Simon talks with her about her story.

Yes, Horse is fiction, but Jarret's presence breathes life into the actual events of Lexington's life. There are many nail-biting moments—times when Jarret's concern for Lexington is paramount as his owners focus on winning races at all costs. And oh, the races!

It is a brilliant work with poignant moments enhanced by a cast of historical characters reimagined by the author. But the most affecting are the fictional ones such as the Black groom, Jarret, who symbolizes the abusive treatment endured by the enslaved.

Secretariat was put down on October 4, 1989 at Claiborne Farm, after suffering from the painful hoof condition laminitis. He was 19.