The Sand Pounder: Love and Drama on Horseback in WWII
2021 Maincrest Media Historical Fiction Award Winner
"The Sand Pounder is one of those rare historical novels with a charm that appeals to both young and old readers." —Readers' Favorite
"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." —Midwest Book Review
"A gripping YA historical novel packed full of twists, turns and memorable characters. Highly recommended!" —Wishing Shelf Book Review
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.
Author Bio:
M.J. Evans is the multi-award winning author of middle-grade and young adult fantasies and novels. She is best known for her horse stories such as In the Heart of a Mustang and PINTO!, as well as her fantasies, The Mist Trilogy and The Centaur Chronicles. Mrs. Evans is a life-long equestrian, a former teacher of middle-grade and high school students, and the proud mother of five grown children. She loves to ride her horses in the Colorado mountains.