Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC
4 out of 5
Recommended for older children, horse lovers, fans of US hisory trivia.
I'm familiar with Steamboat through Craig Johnson's Longmire books, so I couldn't pass up a chance to read this book.
It's a well told short bio of a very famous 'bucking bronco' who became one of Wyoming's state symbols.
The illustrator is known for his character/cariacature style of art, and there is so much detail here!
I do like that the story shows that animals have their own personalities and differences too, and that everyone needs understanding and acceptance to find what they are meant to do with their life.
The 'bookended' story of a grandfather and his granddaughter was a great storytelling device as well.
Perfect book for family storytime.

This was an enjoyable read. I liked finding out the the Wyoming plate horse was a real horse.

Thank you to the author, publisher, illustrator and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I adore this book. I grew up in a family that was very close to the rodeo, so it felt like a story my grandpa would tell me when I asked for a story.

The illustrations feel like old paintings and give a feel of Americana nostalgia. The colors are muted in present day, but vibrant in memories, which gives the reader a deeper understanding of how the story is told. The image of Steamboat being brushed in the barn by lamplight was particularly beautiful and I wouldn't be surprised if I saw that image framed somewhere. I really enjoyed the information about how the image was created using inspiration from Allen Tupper True.

This would be good for advanced children readers, as some of the words are more difficult that an early reader. The story is also quite emotional, so it would be good for children to learn about empathy.

I never knew Steamboat was real, so being able to read about Steamboat's legacy at the back of the book was a treat.

This is really a love letter to the wild west and cowboy life, and any family who has a history or passion for that history will love this book.