Sonora

Sonora by Jenni L. Walsh, published by HarperCollins Publishers Australia on October 28, 2025, is a 400-page work that delves into the life of Sonora Webster, one of the first female horse divers. Set against the backdrop of the American carnival scene during the Great Depression, this narrative follows Sonora as she pursues her passion for diving with horses, navigating a world filled with danger, excitement, and fierce competition. The story highlights her journey from being penniless to becoming a sensation in show business, showcasing her talent and dedication.
Readers will find an exploration of resilience and determination as Sonora faces numerous challenges, including a tragic accident that alters her life. The book presents themes of friendship and the struggles of women in a male-dominated industry, emphasizing the importance of courage in the face of adversity. Through Sonora’s experiences, Walsh vividly captures the spirit of a brave woman who defied societal expectations, making this edition a compelling addition to the genres of literature and fiction, disability fiction, and historical narratives.
Official synopsis Publisher
“Sonora’s story is about not giving up in the face of setbacks. An inspirational tale.” –Booklist
“This one’s for the horse girls, the girls who fell in love with Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken and hoped someday they’d be like the fearless, determined, strong Sonora Carver whose love and belief in her horses made her an icon.” –Joy Callaway, international bestselling author
Inspired by a true story of one of the first female horse divers, Sonora explores a world of daring feats and extraordinary adventures set in the heyday of the American carnival scene.
Sonora Webster is penniless but plucky, and despite the looming Great Depression, she follows her wanderlust, answering an advert to dive with horses. Little does she know that she is about to be thrust into a world teeming with danger, excitement, and fierce competition.
As Sonora delves into the cutthroat world of show business, complete with trapeze aerial acts and juggling bears, her undeniable talent and unwavering dedication propel her into the limelight, making her a sensation, and after marrying the show runner, her entire life becomes their act and their horses. But she soon learns that a diver–and her horse–are only as good as their last show, a show some are hellbent on shutting down. When a tragic accident changes her life forever, can Sonora muster the courage to climb the forty-five-foot tower and dive again, risking her life to save the show and their horses from falling into the wrong hands?
In Sonora, Jenni L. Walsh vividly captures the spirit of a brave woman who defied societal norms to follow her dreams, diving into the unknown with courage and resilience.
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “Sonora” about?
Who is the author of “Sonora”?
When was “Sonora” published?
What is the ISBN for “Sonora”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
