Every Cowgirl Loves a Rodeo

April 15, 2012
Giddy-up, bicycle girl! This horse-loving cowgirl is quick with her pedals and getting ready to compete in a bike rodeo at the county fair. Reigning champ and neighborhood cowboy A.J. Pickett is sure to be competition, but Nellie Sue, resplendent in her girly cowgirl gear, just knows that she and her two-wheeled horse, Beauty, are going to win. Energetic, pink-strewn illustrations with plenty of action show the heroine practicing and later attending the long-anticipated fair. The day itself is full of various delights, and Nellie Sue gets to pet the animals, sample the food and even take part in a pie-eating contest. Then it's time for the rodeo to begin, and our heroine is up first! Will she win? When fate intervenes, Nellie Sue is stoic; for "even more than a blue ribbon, every cowgirl should have a badge of honor." This paean to good sportsmanship and friendship is suspenseful, nicely paced and infused with exciting details that will appeal to both the princess and the tomboy sets. Terrific for cowgirls and bike riders everywhere. (Picture book. 4-7)

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May 1, 2012

PreS-Gr 1-Fun-lovin' cowgirl Nellie Sue enters her two-wheeled "horse," Beauty, in the Bike Rodeo and must face three-time champion A. J. Pickett. After enjoying a day of classic county-fair amusements, such as a pie-eating contest, ring toss, and farm animals, it's finally time for the showdown. Maneuvering Beauty around markers and down straightaways, Nellie Sue is certain that she has the winning time until a mishap during A. J.'s run changes the final outcome. Even readers unfamiliar with Every Cowgirl Needs a Horse (2010) and Every Cowgirl Needs Dancing Boots (2011, both Dutton) will appreciate the protagonist's Western twang and positive attitude, particularly when quick thinking leads to some good sportsmanship. Watercolor-and-ink illustrations have lots of pink appeal and include several large spreads that will carry well for storytime. With her fresh perky face and can-do spirit, Nellie Sue is both a true cowgirl and a faithful friend.-Teri Markson, Los Angeles Public Library

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