Book Review: The World in Pancho's Eye by J P S Brown

Written from the perspective of a young boy, this story follows the life of a cowboy, his family, his work, and his ups and downs. This is a very authentic depiction of early ranch life and experiences - Mr. Brown is writing a fictional account based on his own life experiences.

Life for a cowboy is not easy. And when alcohol plays a large part in it, it's very hard on family life. Cowboys travel for days or months, while the wife is left at home with the kids. Marriages are fragile when there's not much time for a relationship and the cowboy would rather hang out with the boys and drink than come home.

Life for a cowboy's son is not easy either. It's easy to think the sun rises and sets in his Daddy's eyes, and that everything is alright in the world as long as you're with him. But you're not always with him...

Parts of this book made me cry. Parts made me angry. It's not the most positive story - but it is like life is with cowboys. Whether they are raising horses or cattle, that's the most important thing with them. And they like to have a little fun along the way and some booze for that dry throat at the end of the day.

I see cowboys here in New Mexico now that still honor that tradition. And I know Arizona has its share, too.

Read an authentic western story about a child growing up in the era of the depression on a cattle ranch in southern Arizona - it will make you realize why ranchers are so tough.

If you'd like to buy a copy direct from the author, here's his email: horsemn1020@earthlink.net

Sit back in your chair and visit the southern Arizona border with someone who has actually lived there! Mr. Brown would be happy to take you on that journey.

Jo Ann Hakola, The Book Faerie, www.bookfaerie.com