This lyrical middle grade historical novel set during the Great Depression from award-winning author L. M. Elliott is a moving tale of the spirit of American persistence, found family, and the magical partnership between girl and horse. Winner of the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction!

Bea wakes to Daddy’s note in a hayloft, where he abandoned her with her little sister after the stock market crash took everything: Daddy’s job at the bank, their home, Mama’s health and life.

How is Bea supposed to convince the imposing Mrs. Scott to take in two stray children? Mrs. Scott’s money and Virginia farm are drying up in a drought and the Great Depression, too. She might have to sell her beautiful horses, starting with a dangerous chestnut that has caused tragedy in the past and injures her stableman shortly after Bea arrives.

But wrestling with her own hurts and fears, Bea understands the chestnut’s skittish distrust. She sees hope in the powerful jumper—if he can compete at horse shows, they might save the farm, and maybe Bea can even win a place in Mrs. Scott’s heart.

Can a girl who’s lost everything and a horse no one trusts find a way to save each other?

• Historical Fiction for Kids: A vivid look at life during the Great Depression, where sisters Bea and Vivian must rely on their courage after being abandoned by their father.
• A Champion in the Rough: Bea sees a kindred spirit in a dangerous chestnut horse nobody trusts. By earning his trust, she might unlock his potential as a show jumper and save the farm.
• An Unlikely Family: Bea must earn her place on a struggling Virginia farm and in the heart of the imposing Mrs. Scott, who has lost almost as much as she has.
• A Story of Resilience: A moving, lyrical tale about overcoming hardship, discovering your own strength, and the hope that can be found in unexpected friendships.