Cow-Country

by B. M. Bower

"Cow-Country" by B. M. Bower is a novel likely written during the early 20th century, evoking themes of adventure and the frontier lifestyle. The story revolves around the Birnie family, particularly focusing on Buddy, an energetic young boy longing for action and adventure against the backdrop of a cattle drive across the Staked Plains. The opening of the novel introduces Buddy and his family as they journey with a herd of cattle. The scene is set in the hot afternoon, capturing the challenges of a long drive, where exhausted oxen struggle to pull the wagon. Through Buddy's restless demeanor, we see his strong desire for exploration, leading him away from the safety of the wagon toward encounters with wildlife, such as a horned toad and a rattlesnake. As the narrative unfolds, it showcases Buddy's innate courage and curiosity, even as his adventurous spirit often places him in precarious situations. The opening portion effectively establishes Buddy's character and the novel’s frontier theme, setting the stage for his formative experiences in the cow-country.