Additional information
by Jesse Alexander McNeil (Author)
One man, one horse, and a journey across America that changed them both.
At 36, Jesse McNeil had already crossed the country more than once - by moped, bicycle, and even small airplane. But this time, he set out to do something entirely different.
With no formal training, he bought a five-year-old Tennessee Walking Horse named Pepper and committed to riding from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic. What followed was an eight-month journey across fourteen states, from Oregon to the shores of New Hampsure.
An inexperienced horseman with an equally inexperienced mount, Jesse would quickly discover the immense challenges of his new undertaking, being tested many times over as he learned not only what it took to keep Pepper safe and healthy.
Along the way, Jesse discovered the true weight of qualities he had long overlooked: patience, trust, and companionship.
Guided by the kindness of strangers-ranchers, shopkeepers, and families who opened their doors-the journey became more than crossing miles. It became a transformation. And while at some points the miles didn't unfold as Jesse hoped, others yielded unexpected events that changed his perspective ― and quite possibly, his future.
Written with honesty, grit, and grace, On the Hoof captures an arduous voyage that broke a man down and built him back up, with the help of one special horse.
Inside this unforgettable story:
A gripping true story of a coast-to-coast horseback journey across the United States.
An inspiring personal transformation rooted in resilience and self-discovery.
A heartfelt exploration of the bond between human and animal.
Vivid depictions of American landscapes, from rural backroads to small-town communities.
Perfect for fans of adventure memoirs, travel narratives, and stories of personal growth and resilience.
Author Biography
Jesse Alexander McNeil grew up exploring the mountains and rivers of New Hampshire, which kindled his adventurous spirit and inspired later long-distance journeys, from thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail to coast-to-coast trips by bicycle, small airplane, moped, and then, horse. McNeil and the Tennessee Walker, Pepper, who traveled from the Pacific to the Atlantic with him, live in the San Juan Islands of Washington State where they continue to explore hills and fields and daydream of new journeys ahead.
