The Devil's Highway

February 1, 1999
Gr 5-8-A fast-paced story set against the backdrop of the Natchez Trace in the early 1800s. When Zeb's grandfather does not return from a horse-trading trip, the 14-year-old suspects foul play. He and his beloved horse, Christmas, take to the Natchez Trail, a bandit-infested 500-mile pathway connecting Nashville, TN, to Natchez, MS. Zeb avoids the highway robbers who routinely stalk and ambush innocent travelers. He soon meets Hannah, a half-Choctaw girl who has escaped from a band of kidnapping thieves. Teaming up against the odds, the two dodge the outlaws, narrowly escape drowning while crossing the Tennessee River, and stumble upon a group of army officers who are out to apprehend the terrorizing gangs. When the youngsters eventually reach Hannah's tribe, things do not calm down. Broad strokes of historical details enrich the story line. Zeb and Hannah are able to sustain themselves, and the plot, with their pluck and determination. Zeb's daredevil passion for horse racing will amuse readers. An author's note answers historical questions. The story ends abruptly with Hannah being reunited with her parents. Zeb has not found his grandfather, leaving readers waiting for the sequel.-Alison Follos, North Country School, Lake Placid, NY