Mary on Horseback

Rosemary Wells masterfully recounts the incredible true story of Mary Breckinridge, a dedicated nurse who, after serving in World War I, committed her life to bringing medical care to the remote Appalachian Mountains. Faced with challenging terrain and isolation, Mary rode on horseback, fording streams and climbing mountains to reach those in need. Her tireless efforts led to the establishment of the Frontier Nursing Service, a pioneering organization that brought essential healthcare to underserved communities. The book highlights the stories of families Mary helped, offering a poignant look at historical healthcare and the power of one individual's determination. An afterword provides additional facts about Breckinridge and the service she founded, making it a wonderful resource for discussions about history, compassion, and social impact.

Master storyteller Rosemary Wells tells the incredible true story of a World War I nurse who brought medical care to the Appalachians Mary Breckinridge, trained as a nurse during World War I, rode on horseback into the isolated mountains of Appalachia and never looked back. Instead, she spent her life fording icy streams and climbing untracked mountains to bring medical help to those in need. More nurses on horseback joined Mary . . . and the Frontier Nursing Service was born. Mary's story is amazing. And it is true. "Wells's realistic yet poetic prose perfectly captures the dichotomy of the majestic beauty of Appalachia and the harsh realities of mountain life. . . . This one's a gem."--School Library Journa