Author: Melissa Wiley
Pearl Donnelly grew up on a ranch near San Diego back in the early 20th century. Along with cattle, the family raises ostriches and sells their feathers for lady’s fancy hats.
When she’s 11, Pearl’s rambunctious brothers are spotted by a movie producer. He hires them as stuntmen in the Western he’s filming. Pearl hangs out on the set enjoying her brothers’ daring antics. During one scene, Pearl’s horse spooks and runs right in front of the camera. The impressed producer hires her as a stunt girl, and calls her the Nerviest Girl in the World.
This is a light-hearted gallop through the earliest years of the film industry.
Cover art by Risa Rodil