A dramatic and emotional story about one girl’s determination to stand by her beloved animals - and her refusal to give up even in the face of impossible odds.When a devastating earthquake hits Evie’s hometown of Parnassus on New Zealand’s South Island she and the rest of the town are forced to evacuate. Evie’s injured mum is one of the first to be rescued by helicopter and Evie will be next. But when realises that she will be forced to leave her beloved pony Gus her dog Jock and her cat Moxy behind she is determined to find another way. Before the rescue helicopter returns Evie flees with Gus Jock and Moxy in a race against time across difficult terrain to reach the port of Kaikoura where she has heard that people will be evacuated by ship in three days’ time. Surely there will be space for her Gus Jock and Moxy there?In this award-winning children's fiction Stacy Gregg explores themes of resilience and love for animals amidst disasters. The Thunderbolt Pony takes us on a thrilling equestrian journey through Oceania highlighting the mental fortitude required to overcome depression and adversity.For fans of Jo Cotterill (Hopewell High) Lauren St. John (Finding Wonder) Olivia Tuffin (The Horse Who Came Home) Pippa Funnell (Nimrod the Circus Pony) and Clare Balding (The Racehorse Who Disappeared).