From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 4–Katie and Cameron are at the rodeo, not only to watch, but also to help their uncle, Cactus Joe, the best bull rider in Texas. They must water the horses, catch loose calves, and hand out winning ribbons. At first, they don't get things done on time, but, through trial and error, they learn to create a schedule that enables them to perform their tasks and still watch the events. Math concepts are neatly integrated into the story as the two kids to learn to manage their time and see their uncle win the Bull Riding Championship. Wenzel's lively color cartoons create an authentic environment and enhance the excitement and suspense of the story.
–Elaine Lesh Morgan, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Gr. 2-4. Part of the Math Start series, this volume tackles time and schedules. Katie and Cameron visit a rodeo with their uncle, Cactus Joe, who seems to be a CEO trapped inside a cowboy's body. Joe gives Katie and Cameron some chores and activities, and Katie makes out a schedule to keep track of them all. Then, Katie and Cameron have to keep watch so that they don't miss any of the rodeo events. In most of the illustrations, a clock ticks in the background, reminding Katie, Cameron, and the reader of how they are keeping up with their tasks. Glamorizing "to-do" lists is a difficult task, and this effort doesn't exactly sparkle. (The further activities suggested in the last two pages are sure to provoke rebellion in all but the most passive children.) Yet the short length, light tone, and bright illustrations will help put across the concept without too much tedium.
Todd MorningCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved