Sergeant Reckless

By Patricia McCormick, Iacopo Bruno (Illustrator)

A mare becomes a Marine hero, braving battles and earning military honors.

4.5/5 Goodreads · 1,025 ratings

40 pages· 1,300 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud

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Bookroo's summary

In the chaos of the Korean War, a scrappy mare named Reckless is discovered by US Marines. Despite her frail appearance, she proves her mettle by hauling heavy ammunition through relentless battles. As cannons roar and danger looms, Reckless repeatedly charges into the fray, earning the rank of Sergeant and two Purple Hearts. Her courage and spirit transform her from a mere packhorse into a legendary Marine. Discover the heartwarming journey of this extraordinary horse who defied the odds and became a symbol of bravery.

From the publisher

The inspiring true story of Reckless, the brave little horse who became a Marine.

When a group of US Marines fighting in the Korean War found a bedraggled mare, they wondered if she could be trained to as a packhorse. They had no idea that the skinny, underfed horse had one of the biggest and bravest hearts they’d ever known. And one of the biggest appetites!

Soon Reckless showed herself more than willing to carry ammunition too heavy for the soldiers to haul. As cannons thundered and shells flew through the air, she marched into battle—again and again—becoming the only animal ever to officially hold military rank—becoming Sgt. Reckless—and receive two Purple Hearts.

This is the first picture book from award-winning novelist Patricia McCormick, sumptuously illustrated by acclaimed artist Iacopo Bruno.

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