Bull Rider

BULL RIDER by Class of 2K9 author Suzanne Morgan Williams offers a unique combination of topics - rodeo bull riding and the Iraq War. Young Cam O'Mara comes from a ranching, bull riding family, but his interest leans more toward skateboarding. Bull riding has never really held any attraction for him, at least until now. The O'Mara family gets the dreaded news that their oldest son, Ben, has been wounded while fighting in Iraq - and life changes for everyone. The explosion of an IED caused brain trauma and paralysis. Ben returns home but is in for months of hospitalization and therapy. Cam always looked up to his older brother, and seeing him in such a weakened condition, he is at a loss about how to help his brother or provide the encouragement needed for a successful recovery. One thing does occur to Cam - he could honor his brother's name and maybe provide needed money for the family if he took on the challenge of riding a massive bull named Ugly. Readers are in for a bit of a wild ride as Cam explores his newfound interest and at the same time tries to keep up his grades, hang on to friendships, and do his work on the ranch. BULL RIDER reveals a family facing difficult times as they work to support an injured family member and keep the family business from being destroyed by financial hardship. There is a strong message of the determination and sacrifice required to hold a family together through tough times. Reviewed by: Sally Kruger, aka "Readingjunky"

"Bull Rider" is an exquisitely well-written and timely book. It deals with family and sibling relationships, and the adjustments that must be made when a family member returns from the Iraq war suffering from traumatic brain injury. This accessible and moving story, told from the perspective of a 14 year-old skateboarder named Cam O'Mara, doesn't preach. It only illuminates an issue that far too many American families are dealing with.

Bull Rider is an honest portrait of courage and family in the West. Told through a boy's eyes, it is the story of a family suffering along with their soldier son who returns from Iraq with traumatic injuries. Bull riding is the escape the family uses to cope with their tragedy and learn to hope. Heart-breaking and hopeful at the same time, the book paints a picture of family solidarity that I think all young people need to see. There is also a surprise ending that gave me chills. Williams conveys the pain of the soldier's injuries and the impact they have on the family without becoming overly sentimental. The main character, Cam embodies humanity and raw courage--he never complains, he just moves forward. And the grandparents, especially Grandma Jean, are gems. This is a must-read by a talented author.

Saddle up for an amazing ride when you read BULL RIDER. Suzanne Morgan Williams debuts her first novel about the bonds of brothers and the heartbreak of war with the backdrop of the romping,rowdy arena of bull riding. There's a great mix of fun, adventure, heart and family. Librarians and teachers--this is a book you can offer to reluctant readers or anyone who loves skate boarding, horses and bull riding. The ranch family setting is great, with realistic characters and a memorable supportive extended family including a grandmother who loves playing pranks. There's still more...just wait till you get to the ending. All I could say when I read the last paragraph was"WOW!" Don't miss this WOW! book.

Bull Rider is a compelling read for anyone. The men of the O'Mara family have a longstanding tradition of Bull Riding. The youngest,14 year old Cam, has his own interests though. He loves to ride his skateboard. Standing in the long shadow of his older brother Ben has proved challenging for Cam. When Ben enlists in the Marines and forgoes the tradition of Bull Riding, Cam is confused. After Ben's stay in Iraq is extended, bad news comes home. Ben has been severely injured. Cam's Grandma Jean comes to help the family. Ben's faltering belief in himself compels Cam to prove the impossible can be done and to carry on the family tradition of Bull Riding, (Much to the angst of his mother who doesn't want another son to be at the risks of fury and injury.) The strength of family, friends, tradition and most importantly, self belief, ultimately empower Cam to find his own way in this triumphant story. It's evident that Suzanne Morgan Williams researched the subjects of injuries, bull riding, skateboarding,etc., and managed to gently weave informing facts into this truly touching and tangible story.