This book introduces young readers to the eventful decade of the 1840s and the amazing exploits of Lean John Brown, California’s own horseback hero. It tells the tale of how the future Golden State passed from Mexican to American rule, climaxing in the decisive struggle between U.S. forces and Spanish-speaking Californios determined to preserve their independence. At the center of the story is Lean John’s incredible horseback ride, a daring dash for help from a surrounded garrison in Los Angeles all the way to Commodore Stockton’s ship in the harbor of San Francisco, more than 400 miles away. Was Lean John’s “impossible mission” a success?

64 pages, illustrated
Hardcover $13.95
Softcover $9.95

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Hoisting himself into the saddle, Lean John murmured into the ear of his fleet white steed. After a quick check that all was ready, he asked a trooper to open the gate to the garrison and give the password to the sentinel stationed outside.

Unfortunately, upon opening the gate, the foolish trooper called out to the sentinel, telling him not to shoot the man on the white horse! Along with a commotion from a pack of barking dogs, the trooper’s cry aroused the Californios who were camped nearby. Lean John spurred his horse into motion, but he had gone only a short way before 15 armed vaqueros (cowboys) were on his trail!

Riding wildly, Lean John headed toward the Cahuenga Pass. The determined Swede did have one trick up his sleeve. It was here that his knowledge of the land—and his decision to ride his own proven horse—helped him make his getaway.

Approximately two miles from the garrison, he approached a deep ravine. Thirteen feet wide, the gulch cut right through the trail he was following. Lean John knew that the only way across was to jump!

When his pursuers realized what he had in mind, they pulled out their guns and started shooting. The Swede and his mount were within a few feet of the ravine when one of the bullets found its mark. It struck the galloping horse in the right flank, just behind Lean John’s leg.

Perhaps the shock gave the animal an added boost, for it made a mighty leap. With its rider hanging on for dear life, the gallant steed cleared the gulch with only inches to spare!