Friendship's Gallop

by Ross Davis

A homesteader's son and a Lakota Indian boy become steadfast friends through folk music, horsemanship, and simple adventure after crossing paths with each other out on the 19th century American frontier. However, their friendship and even their survival are ultimately tested as they are forced to choose sides amid the Cavalry's attempt to purge the Indian boy's tribe from the frontier.
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76 pages, Paperback

Published October 6, 2020

About the author

Ross Davis is a freelance writer, consultant, and adjunct college professor from Indianapolis, Indiana. While pursuing a doctorate in sociology at South Dakota State University, he gained an appreciation of the Indian Tribes in the region there, which helped to inspire Friendship’s Gallop. Friendship’s Gallop is Ross’s first foray into publishing short story fiction. Ross has authored and co-authored published works of nonfiction, which largely deal with sociological issues such as the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI), for instance: two chapters for the book Technosignatures for Detecting Life in Our Universe: A Research Companion (Wiley-Scrivener, 2022), and the journal article "Concepts for Future Missions to Search for Technosignatures" (Acta Astronautica, 2021). Besides writing, Ross’s other creative interest is music, including having written and published contemporary folk songs.

Reviews

[Aparna Preethi]

“Friendship’s Gallop” by Ross Davis has sprouted out from the appreciation which the author procured in his life. As the title connotes this story is a debut as a soul-stirring friendship tale. This ardent author, Ross Davis is renowned for his non-fictional works in this literary world.

The cheerful and thrilling life journey of two boys is well depicted in a much simpler and impactful manner. This rare read is ornamented with both emotional and fun-packed instances which makes the readers engrossed from the beginning till the end. These amazing friendship traits of two friends, one being the son of a homesteader and the other one being a Lakota Indian boy, revamp our imaginations and surmise about a true friendship.

One read of this richly developed short story will remain as a momentous episode for the readers as the author have a lot and a lot of things to communicate with us through this literary fiction. this realistic exemplum takes the readers into an imaginary land where the story persists. This fairy tale legacy is well-drafted by the author making it an attractive read for those readers of all age groups.

Many series of events enunciated are much connected with the daily life experiences which deep dives it into the inner minds of the readers throughout their read. The author is much successful in sketching out the characters and whole frame of this story so as to decode many mysterious values of friendship. Besides it ponder our inner conscious to broaden up our insights towards various general aspects that always remain as an unsolvable query.

The author through this fiction fractionalizes and puts together a new concept of an unbreakable bond of friendship that adds many bonds to our life. Dipping my toes in reading this tale has taken me into a new dimension of happiness. Apart from some notable ambiguous terminologies used in between, the overall meat of this book surpasses all my expectations of a fully-fledged entertainment package. The famous saying that, ‘A friend in need, is a friend in deed’ is the whole soul of this beautiful work.

I highly recommend reading this fictional generic tale to all those readers who loves an extravagant emotional friendship narrative. Without any sort of doubts, I could affirm that this story is a perfect read among an evergreen or everlasting friendship circle. The crazy friends introduced by the author always exist as imaginary special friends for us after a deep read of this story.

[Sarah Nantais]

For those looking for a short story of friendship, overcoming differences and the purity of youth need to look no further than Friendship’s Gallop by Ross Davis. His first foray into fiction writing follows the lives of two opposites: David Summit, a white young man who has come to settle in South Dakota with his father, and Painting Horse, a young Native American who lives with his Lakota tribe on the plains of South Dakota. Their friendship is forged in the difficult times of colonial settlers in 1875 and is put to a devastating test.

The book is a careful step into the world of fiction for Davis. It is clear that this is a topic he is passionate about as it intertwines with his own personal studies and quests for knowledge. The writing is smooth with clear plot points. Nothing feels rushed, fluffed up or unnecessary. While there is potential for this book to be turned into a longer novel, I believe that Davis did an excellent job telling the story he wanted to share within these few pages. It makes for an easy, cozy afternoon read.

This book is written from a particular perspective with a certain view of the difficult relationships that play out. There are slight undertones of approval for the reservation system and relocating Native Americans from their lands to suit the needs of colonizers. I don’t believe that Davis is unkind on purpose, but this book is fiction for a reason. It is also worth mentioning that the terminology used is specific for American audiences, so don’t be alarmed. I feel like the peaceful outcome is not realistic. It is a beautiful fantasy, however, and it would have been nice if some parts are how history actually played out.

Aside from rigid writing here and there, you can’t go wrong with picking up a copy of Friendship’s Gallop by Ross Davis. A book that follows the bond forged between a young white boy and a young Native American in 1875 South Dakota is a lovely and short read. You can devote an afternoon with a cup of tea to this book and lose yourself in the author’s writing. Carefully laid out and well researched, this book is an excellent addition to any library.

[Aaron]

Ross Davis takes the reader to 19th Century South Dakota. Life appears to be simple despite little advancement in technology. I like how the author paints this era. Everyone seems genuine and very few get to be sly with their intentions. Ross Davis did an impeccable job writing this book, and making the reader travel back to the 19th century, which gave a somewhat nostalgic feeling. The reader is made to experience some things that are not in the contemporary world. The vivid description of events and portrayal of the people was excellent. One can virtually breathe the South Dakota air and even engage with some of the characters.
‘Friendship's Gallop’ follows the story of a Lakota Indian boy and homesteader’s son. The two cultivate a sweet and healthy relationship. As a reader, you enjoy their innocence, the love they share and how close they are. These two boys were not just friends, but family too. I loved scenes where they were together. The author did superb job displaying how lovely diversity is by writing about the boys. Despite coming from different families and different backgrounds, the young men found a way of living in harmony. This was only for a while until something awful happened and the young men could no longer hang out together. The Indian boy’s families were being forcefully removed from their land.
Reading this book will expose you to how different cultures work and especially indigenous tribes. I enjoyed reading ‘Friendship’s Gallop’ because it was a short story but had lots of nuggets of wisdom on friendship and living with people that are different from us. The introduction of war and violence was not something I foresaw, but the author did an incredible work switching themes. ‘Friendship’s Gallop’ is your go o book if you love short stories that have a mixture of both gentle and aggressive themes.

[Diana Levit]

Friendship’s Gallop by Ross Davis is a much needed reminder of people being capable of respecting one another even when their duties and upbringing put them against each other. The story centers around two boys / men – American David and Native American Painting Horse. Destined to hate each other, the boys find it in their hearts to see below the surface and understand each other’s point of view.

There is a truly beautiful moral hidden in this story that makes the reader appreciate this book even more. I enjoyed the story so much I would've liked author Davis to have spent more time elaborating on the moral differences between the two. This would've allowed me to have a better understanding of the characters and to also connect with them on a deeper level. I would've liked to have read more about the inner conflicts and feelings of the two protagonists as they seem to be a bit one-dimensional. This doesn't not take away from the reader being able to enjoy this wonderful story. With a little more finesse to how each character communicated with one another this story has potential to be impeccable. I did enjoy Davis's descriptions of the scenery as it allowed me to fully immerse myself in the story.

Friendship's Gallop is a quick and enjoyable read about friendship and understanding. With just 80 pages I would love for Ross to develop this short book into a full length novel.

[Jenna Tomaszewski]

Friendship’s Gallop by Ross Davis is a novella that follows two young men, one Native American, the other a homesteader, as their paths cross over time. David and Painting Horse meet as young boys, when Painting Horse saves David from another Native American young man. While David recovers, he bonds with Painting Horse, and the two exchange musical instruments, a handmade flute and a harmonica. Fast forward, and David is a member of the military, fighting against the same tribe he had met and befriended in the past. When he comes across Painting Horse, the real tension escalates as the military wants revenge for injured soldiers. Will David disobey his commanding officers and help his friend?

This is a well-written story for the most part, especially since the author does well to establish the differences in culture. Some of the dialogue was a little stiff, but the quick pace makes up for these smaller lapses. The themes in this story will be familiar to most readers, even if there isn’t anything spectacular added to the formula.

The relationship between the two main characters is the focal point of the story, but I found the connection to be a little too rushed, or not emotionally poignant enough to leave an impact. A big example is that the two young men somehow did not recognize each other upon meeting again. Again, the pacing takes care of these issues overall, leaving the reader with a pleasant experience. 4 stars!

[Bethany]

When David is younger, he gets attacked by Native Americans, and is brought to their camp. Here, they apologize for the discrimination and explain they're going to let him return home. While at their camp, he meets Painting Horse and offers to trade his harmonica for his flute. Painting Horse is excited to make the trade but they can't understand each other since they speak different languages.

As David gets older, he decides to join the calvary but always keeps the Lakota boy he met in the back of his mind. Then, as fate would have it, they meet again during an attack. Painting Horse still has David's harmonica and it's how David recognizes him. Despite their differences and the divided world they live in, they develop a friendship that overlooks those traits. They form a bond that is stronger than the discrimination around them.

FRIENDSHIP's GALLOP is an inspirational short story about how true friendship doesn't see color or traits. It doesn't matter what their background is because their bond is that strong. I love the character development and how the story is written for the correct time period. The writing feels a bit stiff and underdeveloped in some places but overall this is a thought-provoking, easy read.


Final Verdict: I would recommend this to fans of unlikely friendships and ones that touch on sensitive topics like discrimination against Native Americans. It's nice seeing Native Americans getting more representation.

[Lizzy]

Friendship's Gallop is the story of an unexpected friendship between a homesteader's son, David, and a Lakota Indian boy, Painting Horse. Pushing past social norms, the two boys overcome their differences and accept one another as they are. Years later, when the Cavalry attempt to purge Painting Horse's tribe, David must choose between his friend or social expectation.

Friendship's Gallop is a thought-provoking read filled with moral integrity and cultural differences. The author draws on his historical knowledge to bring this story to life while creating compassionate and endearing characters. Friendship's Gallop is a short read at only 72 pages. The author fills these pages with a simplistic but compelling narrative. The friendship between David and Painting Horse is charming, and the unlikely pair challenge the social norms placed upon them.

The writing throughout the book is somewhat basic. This is not a negative aspect, but I do think more in-depth writing was needed. At times the dialogue was short and to the point. I wish this had been expanded on, especially the conversations between David and Painting Horse. I think this would have added more weight to the story. However, I enjoyed this book immensely. It's a compelling read, and it stays with you after that last page.

[Aneley Sánchez]

An amazing story about friendship.

Friendship’s Gallop by Ross Davis is a heart-warming and emotion provoking short story about two boys on opposite sides of a war. One of them is the son of a homesteader and the other one is a Lakota Indian boy. This fast-paced story is a short read yet very captivating and entertaining. We see the character’s bonds and how they help each other through hardships. As their friendship is tested all throughout, we grow close to the character’s and form an emotional attachment to them.
Ross Davis's storytelling shines through and helps the reader to emotionally connect with the characters in the story. I liked how the story is developed around the boys' friendship, which must overcome obstacles imposed by the cultures and families of each one. Not only is it a great history lesson, but it provides a lesson to care for one another no matter their background. A short and enjoyable read that I recommend to everyone. The author has created beautiful characters, full of life and personality. We get to meet each of them and learn about them. Davis does an amazing job of making sure the reader truly connects to each one. This story was amazing, and I’m excited to read more from Ross Davis!

[S Tyty]

Friendship’s Gallop by author Ross Davis is a Western short story set in South Dakota in 1875. It follows the friendship between an Indian boy and a homesteader’s son. This friendship is not considered normal, as it is one forged amid the fires of adversities between two completely different sides of a fight. Their friendship is tested as they are forced to choose sides amid the Cavalry's attempt to purge the Indian boy's tribe from the frontier. It’s a story of love and bonds, sparking emotion throughout the entire story.
I must admit this book was not only an amazing read, but also an informative piece of literature that teaches lessons about Indian tribal rituals and their culture. Even though the book is filled with terminology related to the Indian environment, it is easy to follow and understand. The plot kept me on my toes all the way until the last page as I tried to guess what was going to happen. It was an unpredictable and exciting story, one filled with shocking twists you could have never expected. This is due to Ross Davis's skillful ability for storytelling. It’s a catchy read that I definitely recommend to everyone!

[Mary Maciejewski]

Friendship’s Gallop, by Ross Davis, is the historical story of three boys Painted Horse, Red Owl, and David Summit who met in 1875. They grew up together, and two of them remained good friends. Fourteen years later, in 1889, David was now a lieutenant in the 2nd Calvary. He returned home to purge the land of the Lakota Indians, of which Painted Horse was one. Pitted against one another, would their friendship survive the entire cavalry's fortitude against the Indian’s determination?
Davis writes naturally with a gifted hand. I felt I was taken back to a time of horse riders and hand-to-hand combat. The aspect of purging the land of Indians, though true, reminded me a bit of Dances With Wolves, where the white man experiences how the Native American lives.
I am giving Friendship’s Gallop, by Ross Davis, 4 out of 5 stars. The characters were relatable, and the story engaging, but the plot was somewhat predictable. From the beginning of the book when David first met Painted Horse and Red Owl, and Red Owl picked a fight with David, to the meeting up again with Painted Horse Fourteen years later, I felt no surprise. I somehow knew what happened would happen.

[Nela]

Friendship's Gallop by author Ross Davis is a beautiful short story which delves into an unimaginable friendship between a homesteader's son and a Lakota Native American boy. David, a white young man, comes to South Dakota with his father and there he meets Painting Horse, a young native American who lives with the Lakota Tribe. The times of the colonial settlers was a damaging time that affected many but both boys were able to forge a friendship, a friendship that would be tested.

This is one of those stories that anyone would enjoy to read around a campfire, or with a cup of hot chocolate in hand. I went through many emotions while reading this book and I was able to connect with both characters. Davis’s descriptive writing is so beautiful and exact that I felt like I was right there with the characters. The altered history is a nice twist and not one that you would expect. I would’ve liked for this book to be longer so that I can get a deeper dive into the progression of the boy’s friendship but this didn’t take away from the fact that this is a great story. A short read that you will not want to put down. I recommend this book to all.

[Märtha Custis]

Set in the late 19th century, Friendship’s Gallop by Ross Davis follows the lives and intertwining adventures of David, Red Owl, and Painted Horse in the newly acquired territory of South Dakota. The book particularly focuses on the friendship between the three boys and then young men and the challenges and compromises they are faced with in the ever-changing face of the young United States.
The book is swift and easy read, with accessible yet elegant language. The author does a good job of handling the sensitive subject matter and topics in the book, but I do feel he leant a bit too much towards justifying the placement of Indians upon reservations which we know was in fact a violation of human rights.
The book also gives an interesting overview of the weapons used at the time such as the early Howitzer artillery guns, and their range capacity which is a unique and intriguing point.
Overall, the book is an interesting view/projection of what a friendship could have been between Native Americans and Colonizers in 1875, and as such is quite an enjoyable read.

[Lily A.]

"Friendship's Gallop" is a story that weaves two cultures and journeys together, one of a Lakota Indian boy, Painting Horse, and that of a European settler's son, David Summit, in South Dakota. A chance encounter between the two leads to the forging of a warm friendship against the backdrop of the historical conflict between Indians and Europeans in the late 1800s.
Davis' prose is remarkably polished. Further, the brilliantly crafted characters play their role with grace hence painting a clear picture of that period. Readers get an idea of the culture, values, and customs of two dominant cultures. The exhaustive research done by the author makes "Friendship Gallop" a perfect introductory reference for young adults to learn American History.
I enjoyed reading this fast-paced novel. The story is told gently but exploring heavy themes thus culminating into a beautiful moral story. It is a novel that fans of historical fiction and short stories will find endearing.

[Lady]

This was a fantastic book. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. I would definitely recommend this book for ages 12+ as it covers the history of American troops fighting the Indians. I really loved how this story started and even through terrible events friendships and respect can and will happen. I don't want to give any of the story away her but it definitely is an action packed exciting read. I really learnt so much about American history from reading this amazing story. I really connected with the characters. It felt almost like it was a true story and I was so engrossed in the story I felt as though I was there in the thick of it all. I am positive that everyone who is interested in this genre will love this short story just as much as I did.
So much praise goes out to the author and publishing team for creating this wonderful and thought provoking story. I just couldn't put this book down it was that good.

[Hannah Barry]

Truly a genuine, spirited tale of friendship that I think is much needed in times like these. While I found the dialogue a bit stiff at times, I did love the story, the characters, the world Davis created for us.

A layer of this book that elevated it to a more important read was its historical context. Yes, there was a lesson to learn, fun to be had, but it also felt historically appropriate. I enjoyed feeling like I was learning about history as I read the book. And more importantly, I think kids would be able to grasp the historical relevance as well.

All in all, I think this was a delightful read that people of any age would find intriguing and engaging.

[Guadalupe Herrera]

Wonderful story with some History

Friendship’s Gallop by Ross Davis a journey into a deep, caring friendship between a homesteader's son and a Native American boy. They’re an odd pair that wouldn’t normally be friends, but they don’t let that stop them. With the friendship beginning in 1875, the audience is brought on this journey along with the two boys as their friendship grows but, inevitably, is faced with challenges. And a hard choice must be made that will test their bond.

I learned so much from reading Friendship’s Gallop. It was like a history lesson woven into a fun and exciting story. It is well-written and keeps the reader interested since every page and event makes you want to continue so you can find out what happens. The boys go through a lot together, and each scene is very touching. My favorite part was how carefully the characters were developed. They were such a great duo, and the feelings and personalities of each of them were highly relatable. 

This is what makes it such an amazing story. The beautiful writing, the relatable and humane characters, it all comes together to form such a magical adventure. The author was able to give us an important history lesson of past social norms, while also giving us an action filled story of deep friendship. I loved this story and would recommend it to anyone, no matter what genre they prefer. It’s just truly marvelous for all readers to enjoy.

[elizabethedwards]

Did not enjoy

was more like a child s writing. This author is not for me. Perhaps a8 year old might like it