Customer Reviews

Old Ramon (New Windmills)

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This is a timeless story by the author of "Shane". "Old Ramon" centers on a wise older shepherd, a young boy, and two brave dogs. Ramon teaches the boy, who is the son of his patron, how to care for a herd in the harsh terrain of the desert. The boy learns about sheep and sandstorms, rattlesnakes and wolves; he also learns about friendship and loss, bravery and cool-headed wisdom. Set in the Old West, where the cultures of Mexico and Southern California converge, "Old Ramon" offers both a journey back to the adventures of the past and a universal story of growing up. Has nice drawings too.

(While the title of this review highlights the American Southwest, it could be sent in Mexico or other areas of Latin America.)

This short book packed a great deal in a few pages. The characters - old shepherd, young boy, old dog, young dog, and multiple sheep - are introduced gradually, as is the world they live in. In both writing, subject matter, and illustrations, the book strongly evoked the works of Glen Rounds.

I especially appreciated the matter-of-fact relationship between the animals and the humans. To me, a true partnership and interdependence was portrayed. However, more modern audiences may react less favorably to certain story elements (death of animals, memories of neglect of animals resulting in death, and humans physically striking animals.)