
audiobook
by Irvin S. (Irvin Shrewsbury) Cobb
A wagon train snakes through the rugged wilderness of Avalanche Creek, its passengers a mix of seasoned cowhands and a family fresh from the East. Among them is Shirley Gatling, a city‑grown girl whose bright sombrero and beaded bracelets set her apart from the stoic pioneers around her. As the trail climbs steep grades and the mules pause to stare into the green‑hazed abyss below, Shirley’s restless curiosity pulls her toward the roaring creek and the promise of a hearty lunch, much to the bemusement of her parents.
The story follows Shirley’s attempts to fit into a world of dusty trails, creaking wagons, and rugged camaraderie, where every sunrise brings a new challenge. Her exuberant spirit clashes humorously with the practical concerns of her father and the seasoned cowboy who watches over the convoy. Through witty dialogue and vivid scenery, listeners are invited to share the gentle chaos of a young woman learning that the frontier can be both unforgiving and unexpectedly welcoming.
Language
en
Duration
~43 minutes (42K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Original publisher
New York, NY: International Magazine Corporation, 1926.
Credits
Roger Frank and Sue Clark
Release date
2023-02-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1876–1944
Best remembered for his warm humor and sharp eye for American life, this Kentucky-born writer moved from newspaper reporting into a hugely popular career as an author, columnist, and entertainer. His stories often mix small-town detail, comic timing, and a reporter’s feel for character.
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