Wagontongue

"The copy I am reviewing this from is a Ballantine Books Western published in August 1972--an original publication, not a reprint. The main character is Isaac Jefford, a black man who had worked for the Major all of his life. He was a top hand, an excellent breaker of wild horses. As he had no family, when the Major moved out west following the end of the Civil War he went with him. The problem arises when the new man the Major hires thinks he is still fighting the Civil War, and you know what is about to happen....Elmer Kelton's books are filled with much history about the west, particularly Texas. The state needs to thank him for his praise of that country. My recommendation is buy this book."

Kelton tells the story from the unusual perspective of a negro cowboy. The story is good and well told, although the ending was a bit of a let down.