Wee Jack Baines is tired of living in his brother’s shadow. Unlike his brother Robert, Jack is no good at sports or rabbit-shooting, nor popular at school. Luckily for him, though, he is small, and has a gift with horses: perfect for a jockey!

When Uncle Onslow arranges an apprenticeship for Jack with a trainer in Napier, Jack is determined to prove to his family that he can be as good as Robert. He sets out with high hopes and dreams of success – so at last he can be called just…. Jack.

Instead, he finds a harsh and unforgiving boss, back-breaking drudgery, and a vindictive stable-mate. His spirit is shattered and when he realizes that he is nothing more than a cheap stable-hand, he despairs of ever becoming a winning jockey. But as the long, hot summer drags on, powerful forces are at work that will change his life forever. Will he have the courage – and the luck – to survive?

Author – Adele Broadbent

Age – 8+