Wanted: young, skinny, wiry fellows not over 18. Must be expert riders willing to risk death daily. Orphans preferred. Wages $25 per week.

When young Levi Anderson reads this ad in a local newspaper, he can hardly resist the urge to saddle up and head out for a new job. Trouble is, his horse Dusty doesn't think it's such a good idea.

Dusty enjoys his quiet life working on Levi's small family ranch - taking Levi to town, chasing cows, fixing fences, and sometimes even horseracing with the neighbors. He couldn't imagine leaving. Levi steals away in the middle of the night, taking the reluctant Dusty along with him. Dusty may sometimes rear and buck, gallop and balk, but he tries to be good and really is in with his friend Levi for the long run.

And the more they gallop on those wild runs with the "Pony Mail", the closer they bond as friends. But when Indian trouble arises, endangering the Pony Express stations and even Levi's life, will Dusty prove to be a worthy mount?

This kids' historical fiction book is unique as the story of the Pony Express is told from the horse's point of view. The second book written by teen author Mattie Richardson, young listeners will appreciate the fact that it was written by someone close to their age. Great for kids aged 8-12 or any horse lover.

This is a story told by a horse on the Pony Express (in first person)! The story is set in 1860/1861 in the western portion of the USA!