This Ain’t Our First Rodeo

Gr 9 Up–Fifteen-year-old Josie’s parents own a growing number of restaurants, and they’re hoping she’ll take over the empire once she graduates, but Josie’s heart lies elsewhere. Her grandparents have stewarded the family ranch for generations, and while Josie’s family’s restaurants cater rodeo events throughout Houston, Josie’s desire is to be with her horse, Strawberry. At the annual carnival, she meets Shawn, an up-and-coming bull rider. The two enjoy an unforgettable evening, complete with funnel cakes, Ferris wheel rides, and longing stares. Though the night ends in a misunderstanding, Josie and Shawn remember each other when they meet again three years later. Shawn is now a successful bull rider with riches to his name, and he remembers Josie like it was yesterday. Josie’s heart flutters at the sight of him, but she has other issues to worry about. The worst has come true: her grandparents are selling the ranch. This is a cozy, delightful romance. The world around Josie and Shawn is given lush attention, with the characters’ personal histories interweave to create a sincere connection and setting. The focus remains squarely on Josie and Shawn; much of the novel consists of their tender conversations, punctuated by short chapters and powerful metaphors. Tamani has masterfully represented the characters’ Blackness, and has utilized authentic turns of phrase and social cues to punctuate the events.