Lady Buckaroo

In only ten seconds fifteen year old Lael Buckley knows what her life's vocation will be. Winning her first rodeo event-steer riding-Lael experiences the thrill of competition. Fearing injuries and a difficult lifestyle, Lael's parents don't share their daughter's dream of becoming a rodeo professional and place serious obstacles in her way. Still, she finds ways to compete in events until she can stand it no longer and, with begrudging consent from her family, she begins the exciting, though often lonely,road to stardom. In the 1920s women could compete in what would later become men-only events--bulldogging, bronco riding, steer roping and calf roping. These events, plus trick riding and relay racing, become the ladder of Lael's success, each rung winning the hearts of rodeo fans throughout the country and the deep respect of her fellow rodeo performers. LADY BUCKAROO gallops at top speed into the tight-knit lives of professional rodeo stars who thrill with the exhilaration of performing bone-crunching, dangerous events. Throughout the book, author Suzanne Lyon keeps her readers on the edge of their bleachers as they witness the inner-workings of the rodeo circuit. Even off-seasons become exciting as the rodeo queen travels to Hollywood to work as stunt rider with movie greats such as Tom Mix. Other passions--love and deep friendships--ride with Lael making LADY BUCKAROO an unforgettably fun read. Review by Mary E. Trimble