A short and intense historical novel, particularly well-written. Captain Jefferson Kidd is 71 years old. He has lived through three wars and fought in The War of 1812 and the Mexican War. He was a printer but debts from the war broke his business. Now in 1870 he wanders between small towns in Texas giving performances where he reads the news of the world from newspapers from Chicago, New York, London, Paris, etc. In Wichita Falls he accepts the responsibility of delivering a young girl, Joanna to her family near San Antonio, after she was kidnapped by Kiowa Indians, although he knows this will be a dangerous trip. But since he raised two daughters, he feels responsible.

And a dangerous trip it is indeed. The two are followed by a man who wants to steal the girl for prostitution. Raiders want their wagon and supplies. Perhaps most dangerous is Johanna herself. She identifies herself as Kiowa and is prepared to run away or kill someone at the least provocation. Captain Kidd must forge an uneasy friendship with her just to make sure they both survive. As he teaches her English and slowly “civilizes” her, mutual respect grows. The level of detail about the trip is fascinating and the emotional connection between the Captain and Johanna completely held my attention. The plot is fairly simple but the beautiful writing and the feeling of truth make it important.

A wonderful, well-told story with an excellent reader. It's just a perfect book for relaxing afternoon reads!

Beautiful book! So much more so that it is based on true stories. Recommended it to friends, who loved it.