Akiak has been at the head of her team for seven Iditarod races. She knows the 1,151 miles of Alaskan terrain between Anchorage and Nome better than any other dog. Perhaps even better than Mick, the woman whose sled she pulls. In all those tries, they've never won; the closest they've come is second. In this, Akiak's eighth attempt, the ten-year old dog has her final chance to win. But Mick must pull Akiak out of the race on day four because of an injured paw, and the team heads on without her. On day five, Akiak breaks free from the volunteers who would fly her home and sets off down the Iditarod trail alone, in pursuit of her team, in pursuit of her victory. Robert Blake's dramatic story is powerfully illustrated with sweeping oil paintings that span each two page spread, capturing a fierce and stunning frozen landscape and the spirit of those who cross it. (Ages 7-11)

When she hurts her paw on the fourth day of the race, Akiak can no longer compete in the Iditarodathe famed dogsledding race through 1,151 miles of Alaskan terrain. Her musher has no choice but to leave her behind. The rules say once a dog is dropped from the race, it may not rejoin the team. But ten-year-old lead dog Akiak doesnat know the rules, and nothing will stop her from catching up to her team. Akiak has never won the race before. Will she be able to help her team win this time?