In 1923, there were no doctors or hospitals in the isolated mountains of Appalachia. Then Mary Breckinridge came. Trained as a nurse, she made the Appalachians her life's work-fording icy streams and climbing untracked mountains to bring medical help to those in need. These three stories, told in simple, luminous prose, bring to life the birth of the Frontier Nursing Service, which still operates in Kentucky. Mary On Horseback shows yet another side of Rosemary Wells-one of today's most versatile authors.

"These beautifully written stories will remain with the reader long after the book is closed." - Booklist , starred review

"A compelling little book that might well cause some children of this overabundant age to consider their blessings...." - The Horn Book , starred review

Awards:

( Winner of the Christopher Award

( A Horn Book Fanfare Book

( A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year

( A Smithsonian Notable Book for Children