Cody's Wish

”‘There’s no quit in this horse and there’s no quit in that young man over there’–so reports Paul K. Halloran Jr. on the true story of a disabled boy and the racehorse he inspired in Cody’s Wish. Halloran’s comprehensive reporting takes readers behind the inspiring story into the lives of the brave boy and the talented Thoroughbred whose love for one another touched a nation.“–Sarah Maslin Nir, author of Horse Crazy: The Story of a Woman and a World in Love with an Animal and two-time finalist for the Pulitzer Prize
“A profound story of a remarkable bond between a young man born with Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome and a courage-driven racehorse. The Saratoga Special veteran journalist Paul Halloran takes us on this emotional ride of life and loss, second chances, and the oh-so-powerful impact of love. Written with grace and compassion, Halloran opens the door on persons with disabilities, giving us a unique understanding, a view of hope, and the true belief that when the connection is real, hearts share the same beat.”–Kim Wickens, author of Lexington: The Extraordinary Life and Turbulent Times of America’s Legendary Racehorse
“Who could guess that giving Paul Halloran that Travers Day assignment would provide the perfect opportunity for just the right person to tell the story of Cody Dorman and his family and the great Cody’s Wish? Paul’s understanding, empathy, and enthusiasm for those involved comes out masterfully in his writing and this book is a must read for anyone interested in racing. Even those without that passion for racing will be enthralled by this story of courage, compassion, and the unmistakable bond between a boy and a horse.” –Tom Law, managing editor, The Saratoga Special
Paul Halloran’s new book Cody’s Wish captures literal lightning in a bottle, the connection between this boy and this horse and the places that bond took Cody and his family… . As familiar as any reader may be with the journey of the Dormans and Cody’s Wish in 2022 and 2023, the book dives deep into those years and the joy and wonder that the boy and his horse bring to his family, those who were there, and those who may be learning about Cody’s story for the first time… . Ultimately, this book is a profound testimony to the unspoken connections that can heal and sustain the human spirit. The unforgettable image of a thousand-pound champion gently bowing his head into the lap of that courageous young man will stay with readers long after they turn that final page.–Jennifer Kelly “America’s Best Racing”

Paul K. Halloran Jr. has covered horse racing since the mid-1980s. He is a regular contributor to The Saratoga Special, Mid-Atlantic Thoroughbred, and This Is Horse Racing, and co-host of the HHH Racing podcast. In 2022, he was assigned to cover the Forego Stakes, where he first encountered Cody’s story. He has followed the family’s journey ever since. His piece “Fairytale” for the Saratoga Special earned an honorable mention in the 2022 Media Eclipse Awards. Halloran is a lifelong resident of Boston.

This item is eligible for free returns within 30 days of delivery. See our returns policy for further details.