All About Cowboys for Kids, Part 1

An educational and entertaining look at the history and lore of American vaqueros, taped around Cheyenne, Wyoming's Frontier Days rodeo, All About Cowboys for Kids, Part 1 offers a hodgepodge of Western culture, including roping, stagecoaches, rodeo clowns, and bronc riding (a “cowboy has to stay on a bucking, twisting, highly annoyed horse--and look good doing it--for at least eight seconds”). “Rattlesnake Jake” educates young viewers about the old days, warranting a tip of the ten-gallon hat for the discussion on women in Wyoming history, and viewers meet a seven-year-old who is indeed a cow boy (though onscreen graphics warn “KIDS--DON'T TRY THESE TRICKS”--a reminder that regardless of the economy's condition, lawyers are always at work). In addition, the program also includes a good feature-within-the-feature about the importance of railroads in the settlement of the West, as well as some songs (though little buckaroos may be inclined to fast-forward through the music). Presenting quality information in a fun way at a modest price, this is highly recommended for most and a must-purchase for Wyoming libraries. [Note: All About Cowboys for Kids, Part 2 is also available at the same price.] Aud: K, E, I, P. (R. Reagan)