Retta Barre has never met a hero, except for the ones she reads about in her books. She does know that they're strong, courageous, and handsome--everything she's not. Of course, the world doesn't expect much from her anyway. She's just a plain-looking 12-year-old who's more stubborn than brave, and who owes what little strength she has to her dull daily chores. And yet, when her friends are missing, Retta doesn't think twice; she just heads out to help them. Then again, she doesn't know the danger that's about to come her way. Through it all, Retta discovers that friendship and courage are her strengths, and that true heroes are just ordinary people facing extraordinary challenges--just like her.

Fourteen-year-old Francis Tucket is heading west on the Oregon Trail with his family by wagon train. When he receives a rifle for his birthday, he is thrilled that he is being treated like an adult. But Francis lags behind to practice shooting and is captured by Pawnees. It will take wild horses, hostile tribes, and a mysterious one-armed mountain man named Mr. Grimes to help Francis become the man who will be called Mr. Tucket.

What does it take to serve in special forces? Take a look into life as an elite soldier, from training to the many jobs available, plus true stories of successful military missions. Book jacket.