Category: Young Adult Fiction (Ages 13-17)
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publisher: Dancing Horse Press, 284 pages
Release date: September 2021
Content Rating: Rated G - Completely clean
“M.J. Evans does an excellent job of winding the era's history and the lesser-known job of the Sand Pounders into a realistic story of a mature teen's determination to make a difference in her world.” - Diane Donovan for Midwest Book Review
“A gripping YA historical novel packed full of twists, turns and memorable characters. Highly recommended!” - The Wishing Shelf Book Review (UK)
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Fearing
an invasion by German and Japanese forces during World War II, the U.S.
Coast Guard enlisted horsemen to patrol the beaches along the east and
west coasts. The unit was called "The Sand Pounders" and they rode their
horses up and down the beaches from 1942 to 1944.
In Tillamook,
Oregon, a young equestrian decided to join them. There was only one
problem...they were only accepting men. That didn't slow her down.
"The Sand Pounder" is a Young Adult historical fiction set during World War II.
Readers may learn something from The Sand Pounder: Love and Drama on Horseback in WWII. I had not known about the Sand Pounders in my own history classes. While I had studied WWII and understood much of the U.S.'s overseas military involvement--I had minimal exposure to some of the aspects of life in the U.S. during the time of the Japanese internment camps. The author did an excellent job expressing some of the lesser discussed realities of that war on the homefront--especially for those close with Japanese American families.
The Sand Pounder Offers Something for All Readers. When I was young, I often shared books with my grandparents--and, as I read this book, I know that we all would have enjoyed it. The author creates a solid female character facing challenges and obstacles, giving readers human interest stories and even a love story to add to the storyline. Readers will find some history lessons, moral lessons, wartime adventure, a love story, a strong girl--and a love of horses and community.
Would I Recommend The Sand Pounder: Love and Drama on Horseback in WWII? I loved this book from start to finish. (Be sure to read the epilogue too!) The author creates a perfect blend of history, fiction, love, and life stories to create a well-rounded novel suitable for young adults and older adults alike. If you enjoy clean, young adult historical fiction with strong female characters willing to challenge the "norm" during difficult times--add this one to your reading list.
Award-Winning, Best-Selling author, M.J. Evans grew up in Lake Oswego, Oregon, and graduated from Oregon State University. She spent five years teaching junior high and high school students before retiring to raise her five children. She is a life-long equestrian and enjoys competing in Dressage and riding in the beautiful Colorado Mountains.
connect with the author: website ~ instagram ~ facebook ~ goodreads ~ pinterest
THE SAND POUNDER Book Tour Giveaway
Dear Angela,
ReplyDeleteI am so happy that you loved "The Sand Pounder." Thank you so much for reading and reviewing it! M.J. Evans