About the Author

Australian author Alison Lester is perhaps best known for her picture books. However, she captivated her audience with her first novel, The Quicksand Pony. In a starred review, School Library Journal called it "a gripping adventure story, a tale of survival, an engaging mystery, a touching animal story, and a family saga."

Reviews

"Lester introduces readers to a willful Australian girl in this gripping adventure novel." Booklist, ALA "The plot's components--girl-loves-horse story, family drama, girls-against-the-elements adventure--make this novel a multilayered pleasure." VOYA (Voice of Youth Advocates) "This fast-paced 'horse and girl' adventure story has interesting well-developed characters, and the tension among the family members is well drawn." School Library Journal "Crisp writing and terrific adventure scenes propel the reader." Kirkus Reviews --

Gr 6-8-The high plains of Australia have been hit by a severe drought that has brought difficult times to the cattle farmers. Dusty Riley, 14, has always been her father's "right-hand man," but as the situation grows worse her dad begins to withdraw from his family, causing everyone more stress. Her only consolation is her love for her horse, the Snow Pony. The mare was a brumby, and now allows only Dusty to ride and take care of her. When the teen, her younger brother, and her father set out to bring the cattle down from the high country for the winter, they encounter illegal hunters who threaten their lives. Before the roundup is over, a serious snowstorm impedes their progress and Dusty and her pony prove their courage as they go for help. This fast-paced "horse and girl" adventure story has interesting, well-developed characters, and the tension among the family members is well drawn. The dangerous situations are well integrated into the plot, and the upbeat ending is plausible and satisfying.-Carol Schene, Taunton Public Schools, MA Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.