The Pony Express

Children's Literature - Beverly Kobrin

Remember the Pony Express when the joint endeavors of people and horses are on the agenda. The historic 18-month-long venture into mail delivery literally rested upon the backs of hardy, intelligent, and speedy horses-mainly Mustangs and Thoroughbreds. Laurel Van der Linde's anecdote-laden account of the relatively short-lived service is first rate.

Carolyn Phelan

This attractive history of the Pony Express discusses its beginnings, routes, riders, ponies, dangers, problems, and successes, and the reasons for its demise. Illustrated in black and white with reproductions of period engravings and photographs as well as with paintings and maps, the book has an appealing jacket and an inviting format. The appended bibliography suggests books for further reading. While the author sometimes overdramatizes events such as the U.S. Cavalry rescue of a station master and rider about to be burned at the stake by Indians, the excerpts she reprints from contemporary accounts of the Pony Express offer a lively and believable view of the subject. On balance, a useful addition to many collections.