Customer Reviews

An Arizona Judge Remembers

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Westerners like to think they hide their emotions, or gift-wrap them in rough humor. But Dee Strickland Johnson isn't afraid of feelings, and 'Cowman's Wife' puts them all out there--loneliness, love, aggravation with the cussedness of life next to nature. These ballads are sensitive, but never ga-ga. There's sly humor among the memories she evokes of living a long ways from anyplace else. Best to just read the book and let the feelings have you.

Dee's energy and zest for life becomes vivid as you read her stories of the West. Her ability to tell tales and put you in the setting makes you feel as though she is talking to you alone. You will know, after spending time with her, why she is an award winning poet.

Ms Johnson has captured the essence of a time when life was simple, but tough, humorous and trying, enriched by Mother Nature's beauty and shaken by her power. Ms. Johnson has a unique style, and a pleasant manner in capturing the flavor of the moment. In "The Roan and the Pontiac," she sees the universal frustration of the young cowboy who must contend with the more well-to-do charmer. In "The Warm November Sun," you can hear the tear, and share the joy of a beautiful relationship. "Cowman's Wife" is a fun book that I keep out for my visitors and friends to read. And often, I will pick it up to read to others and give them a flavor -- as best I can -- of an artist's rendition of days gone by.

It takes a special person to be able to make me envision characters, events, sounds, smells and the events that Dee delightfully describes in her poetry. Truly a gifted writer (or tale spinner) and a wonderful book!

The poetry and story telling of Buckshot Dot reflect the history of the southwest in its most authentic form. Her use of the language is exceptional and her dedication to creating the emotions and experiences of those who lived in the early days of the wild west make for a delightful read. Her videotape performance "Live From Pioneer" was taped at an authentic opera house moved from Prescott, Arizona where late 1800's performers there included the famous Lillie Langtry to its current home in a historical museum outside of Phoenix. Buckshot Dot's performance truly is compelling and brings each story poem to life as she becomes her characters. A piece of Americana that is unique and highly entertaining.

I have always envied Dee Strickland Johnson. She has the talent to write, rhyme, sing and put a story together that will make you laugh, make you cry or simply make you wonder why? Earth is good and so is sky. A master story teller with that warm fuzzy touch.