Red River Stallion

Harrison’s tale of a 14-year-old Native American girl’s search for her father on the North American frontier after her mother dies is beautifully written, at times reminiscent of Scott O’Dell. Orphans Amelia Otterchild Mackenzie and her younger half-sister, Charlotte, have barely survived a recent famine that plagued their Cree tribe, which lives near the Hudson Bay. When Amelia connects with Foxfire—a magnificent red stallion traveling with his English owner, Orchid Spencer, to the Red River Valley—Amelia knows it is her destiny to join them on this trip and find her father. The journey and the overall story are slow, with great detail given to the time period, the land, and the horses; Amelia’s (and Harrison’s) affection for the animals is evident on every page. As a heroine, Amelia is determined, loyal, proud, and protective. For readers who enjoy being transported back in time and appreciate the careful way that Harrison (The Horse Road) lays out each scene (as well as those who are as fond of horses as Harrison is) Amelia’s journey will be a delight. Ages 8–12. (Feb.)