A Brand Is Forever [Hardcover]

Ann Herbert Scott (Author), Ronald Himler (Illustrator)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 22, 1993 | Age Level: 5 and up

Gramp designs Annie her own special brand for the upcoming branding of her beloved pet calf, Doodle. Although Annie's brother predicts that she won't be able to watch, both Annie and Doodle survive this rite of passage in triumph.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

As branding day on the ranch draws near, Annie grows increasingly apprehensive. Her beloved pet calf, Doodle, will be marked with the searing iron for the first time, and her older brother has dared her to keep her eyes open throughout the whole distressing episode. Scott's ( On Mother's Lap ; Someday Rider ) somewhat rambling account of this traditional western event--an engaging and uncommon picture-book topic--demonstrates an affecting folksiness and restraint that gradually draw readers in. Flashback sequences relating the history of Annie's family and of her relationship with Doodle flesh out the story and add an inviting verisimilitude. Both the narrative itself and an informative endnote about brands open a window on a way of life sure to be unfamiliar to many. Readers will pull for girl and calf as they both emerge victorious from their respective ordeals. Himler's ( Fly Away Home ; The Wall ) pastel-toned watercolors offer an atmospheric portrayal of open country, horses and cattle; their subdued tone nicely suits the story's laid-back--though deeply felt--emotionality. Ages 6-9.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From School Library Journal

Grade 2-4-- Annie lives on a cattle ranch, where everyone looks forward to branding day. This year she dreads the event, because it's her pet heifer's turn. The story leads up to the roundup, telling of Annie's concern and the purpose of the practice. Full-color paintings capture the family's interactions and activities. The branding-day action is authentic, documenting the realities and traditions of ranch life. (Castration of bull calves isn't mentioned, although it's a typical part of the process.) While branding is a fact of Western life, the facts of burning the calf's hide and cutting ear notches may be too graphic for sensitive city kids (and adult animal activists). Readers are sure to sympathize with Annie and sigh with relief when it's over. Her story will capture the interest of those fascinated with the true West. --Charlene Strickland, formerly at Albuquerque Public Library , NM
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 5 and up
  
• Hardcover: 46 pages
• Publisher: Clarion Books; 1ST edition (March 22, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0395601185
• ISBN-13: 978-0395601181
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 7.4 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,926,262 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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