Mrs. Mack

Patricia is thrilled when her father decides that she's finally old enough to learn to ride. But her dreams of having a beautiful horse of her own are dashed when he takes her to a stable in Dogpatch, the rundown section of town. Patricia is sure that she'll never learn anything in a place like that. But it's in Dogpatch that Patricia meets two individuals--kind, patient Mrs. Mack and a glorious chestnut mare named Penny--who help her overcome her fears, and change her life forever. Powerfully written, beautifully told, and brought to life with rich watercolor illustrations, this is a story that will touch the heart of everyone who reads it.Studying in the United States and Australia, Patricia Polacco has earned an MFA and a PhD in art history, specializing in Russian and Greek painting, and iconographic history. She is a museum consultant on the restoration of icons. As a participant in many citizen-exchange programs for writers and illustrators, Ms. Polacco has traveled extensively in Russia as well as other former Soviet republics. She continues to support programs that encourage Russo-American friendships and understanding. She is also deeply involved in inner-city projects in the United States that promote the peaceful resolution of conflict and encourage art and literacy programs. The mother of a grown son and a daughter, she currently resides in Michigan, where she has a glorious old farm that was built during the time of Lincoln.