COWBOY COUNTRY
by Ann Herbert Scott & illustrated by Ted Lewin
A cowboy (``about as real as an old buckaroo can get'') takes a boy who's ``never met a real cowboy before'' to his ranch, saddles him a pinto, and takes him out on the range for an overnight, sharing memories and know-how in laconic, wonderfully well-honed descriptions in the manner of one who has long pondered in solitude what he cares for most. As the two move about the corral and ride into the hills, the man talks about his horse and about ``reading cows,'' makes sure a neighbor's bull is all right, recalls Shoshone cowboys who ``ride like a hole in the wind,'' contrasts great drives of the past with new ways, and finishes the day with a lyrical paean: ``It's worth the cold and sweat and dust/just to lie back and watch the stars/come blazing their own trail....'' Once again, Lewin conveys the essence of the setting and experience in splendid watercolors, capturing the big sky, the patient, alert horses, the crags above a wooded waterhole, and the growing bond between the lad and his mentor in glowing impressionistic detail. Authentic information, presented with real artistry. (Picture book. 4-10)