To Race a Dream by Deborah Savage There have been several books written about Dan Patch, this book is a Fictionalized story about Dan Patch written by the Great Grandaughter of the owner M.W.Savage

Published 1994 (Out of Print)

This book is out-of-print, but many copies are still available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble & Ebay.

The Story...In rural Minnesota in 1906, Theodora, 15, disguises herself as a boy so that she may work on a horse farm. Her dream is to drive horses, especially the champion, Dan Patch. There are several cliched characters, e.g., the horse-loving heroine; the wise, old man who counsels her; the boyfriend who sympathizes with her dream; the sister adored by the parents, etc. Savage gives glimpses into the other characters, but only Theodora is thoroughly developed. The author uses little subtlety in conveying the theme of following one's dreams no matter what the cost. The story moves along at a steady pace, and readers will find themselves involved in Theo's coming of age. Though not quite equal with National Velvet or Black Beauty, horse fans will probably enjoy it, and anyone who has felt the need to follow a dream will be impressed with this spirited young woman.

Deborah Savage is the author of a number of books for young adults, including, Summer Hawk, winner of the Boston Authors Award for young adult literature 2000, To Race a Dream, and Under a Different Sky, which School Library Journal called in a starred review, "endlessly fascinating and appealing." She lives in western Massachusetts.