Cowboys aren't necessarily boys. They aren't necessarily grown-ups, either. In this lively photo essay, young readers will meet girls and boys who live a unique way of life by working on their families' cattle ranches. Cowgirls and cowboys take part in many aspects of livestock operations, from calving and branding to haying and rounding up the herd. Their work is valuable because cattle are among the world's most important domesticated animals. With a colorful and informative text, illustrated with action-packed photographs, Cat Urbigkit follows cattle kids through a year of ranching on the western range.

Reviews
Kirkus Reviews: "Readers will come away knowing the differences between calves, heifers, cows, bulls and steers, as well as having a general picture of the annual rhythms of cattle raising."

Library Media Connection: "In this photographic essay readers are introduced to children who work on their family cattle ranches. The text explains the hard work that is needed to keep a cattle ranch functioning. Clear, color photographs and the accompanying, easily understood text explain the different types of cattle ranches as well as the animals found on them."

From Midwest Book Review, Children’s Bookwatch, September 2007: “IRA Notable Book author Cat Urbigkit presents Cattle Kids: A Year on the Western Range is a children's picturebook all about life as a cowboy or cowgirl - a job that isn't entirely restricted to grown-ups! Beautiful, full-color photography illustrates this exciting portrayal of young people helping adults look after cattle, from calving and branding to haying and rounding up the herd. A delightful, honest, and accurate portrayal of genuine ranch life.”