Bronco Charlie and the Pony Express Book

Relates how, in 1861, a boy named Charlie Miller became the youngest rider for the Pony Express, a mail service that linked the east and west coasts of the United States.

Christine Amyot - Children's Literature

The true story of Julius Miller, better known as Bronco Charlie, comes to life in this biographical story for children. As part of the "On My Own History" series, this story details the amazing life of Bronco Charlie and the pony express. The story begins in Sacramento, California, with a young boy who tries desperately to tame a wild horse. He succeeds, earning other cowboys' respect as well as his nickname, Bronco Charlie. When a Pony Express horse gallops into town without a rider, Charlie volunteers to deliver the mail. He was only eleven years old. The story of Charlie's first trip as a Pony Express rider will delight children and teachers alike. The action elements of the story will keep readers entertained, while teachers will enjoy the history interwoven within the tale. Orback's paintings bring the story to life, clearly illustrating Charlie's fear on that first harrowing night as a mail carrier. The book is completed by a short biography of the real Bronco Charlie. This story would be perfect for a classroom library, as an addition to a United States history unit, or as read aloud. 2004, Carolrhoda Books, Ages 4 to 8.