In Kate Hoefler’s realistic and poetic picture book debut about the wide open West, the myth of rowdy, rough-riding cowboys and cowgirls is remade. A timely and multifaceted portrayal reveals a lifestyle that is as diverse as it contrary to what we've come to expect.

School Library Journal’s Fuse#8 Best of 2016   * "...a fresh, multidimensional glimpse at those who make their home on the range." —School Library Journal, STARRED review   * "[Real Cowboys] may well persuade readers to trade their ninja outfits for chaps, bandanas, and 10-gallon hats." —Publishers Weekly, STARRED review   "...a lovely, quiet book about the personality traits that come in handy when the going gets tough." —Booklist   "An eloquent response to anyone with a simplistic picture of the cowboy as a rough, tough working man and nothing else." —Kirkus   "Young cowpokes will appreciate the seriousness given to their passion..." —Horn Book   "The illustrations are vibrant, somewhat abstract, and reminiscent of a vintage children’s book. Readers will be delighted to learn about the many tasks a cowboy goes through in a day because the illustrations give a colorful portrayal of their livelihood." —School Library Connection