Whitey's First Round Up

Whitey

by Glen Rounds

Although he's the smallest cowboy on his uncle Torwal's Rattlesnake Ranch, Whitey finally proves that he can be a first-rate cowhand in an exciting roundup adventure

94 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1942

About the author

Glen Harold Rounds was a distinguished American writer and illustrator whose career spanned over six decades, during which he wrote and illustrated more than 100 books. Known for his vivid storytelling and masterful illustrations, Rounds garnered over 25 literary awards, cementing his legacy as one of the prominent children's authors and illustrators of his time.
Born in a sod house near Wall, South Dakota, Rounds had a rugged childhood that involved various jobs such as baker, cook, and ranch hand, alongside adventures in the carnival and logging industries. His early years on a Montana ranch provided a rich foundation for the characters and landscapes that would appear in his later works. Rounds was drawn to art from a young age, and after studying painting and drawing at the Kansas City Art Institute and the Art Students League of New York, he spent time touring the Western U.S. with fellow student Jackson Pollock and their teacher, Thomas Hart Benton. It was during this period that Rounds began his lifelong pursuit of illustrating stories.
Rounds’ breakthrough came with Ol' Paul, the Mighty Logger (1936), a collection of Paul Bunyan stories he largely created himself. The book's success launched his career, and he went on to write and illustrate numerous titles, including The Blind Colt (1941) and the Whitey series, which featured a young Montana cowboy. His works often explored themes of the American West, wildlife, and the natural world, with a unique ability to convey both humor and pathos through his illustrations and writing.
Throughout his career, Rounds introduced a variety of beloved characters, including Mr. Yowder, the itinerant sign painter, and his books continued to win critical acclaim. Even in his later years, after arthritis forced him to switch to drawing with his left hand, Rounds remained a prolific creator. His last book, Beavers (1999), was lauded for its informative and succinct prose, paired with illustrations that demonstrated his enduring skill and patience.
Rounds received numerous accolades, including the Kerlan Award (1980) and the North Carolina Award for Literature (1981). He was also inducted into the North Carolina Literary Hall of Fame in 2002, shortly before his death. His works continue to be celebrated for their captivating illustrations and stories that bring the American landscape and its characters to life.

Reviews

[Rena Sherwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is an extended short story by Rounds that first appeared in "Story Parade" magazine. It fits nicely into the Whitey series. However, it also works as a stand-alone story. You do not need to read any of the previous books in the series in order to get the gist.

This looks at what actually happened on old-time cattle round-ups, and not what is described in dime novels or shown in movies. Whitey finds out that there is a lot of dull, hard work, such as fetching water and finding firewood. And how do cowboys manage sleeping on the ground without a tent when it rains?

This book has a lot of humor in it, which may or may not go over a kid's head. I sure enjoyed it, anyway, even though I'm at least 40 years older than the target audience. Rounds never talks down to kids in his stories, such as using names like Mr. Waccapominy.

The book is generously illustrated by Rounds' distinctive and elegant pen and ink drawings. I happen to be a fan of his work, since they carry motion and character, similar to calligraphy figures. They may not appeal to everyone. But his drawings of ranch dogs and the horse Old Spot can't be beat.

[Suzanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute enough, but not great.

[Books Kids Like · Rating 4 out of 5]

An early spring blizzard has caused cattle to break through drift fences and scatter throughout the countryside. Several ranchers, including Uncle Torwal, are getting together for an old fashioned roundup. Whitey is hopeful that he'll get to go along. He works hard untangling rope and helping Mr. Waccapominy Smith, the cook, prepare the chuck wagon. The day before the roundup Uncle Torwal tells Whitey to get his bedroll ready. Whitey is up bright and early the next morning but his early start is foiled by his horse, Old Spot who won't come to his whistle. By the time he catches the horse the others have left. Whitey decides to go cross country. He takes his sweet time looking at many interesting things. When he finds a buffalo wallow he gets off Old Spot to look for Indian arrowheads. He forgets to throw the reins over Old Spot's head and so the horse heads for home. Whitey chases him over a few hills, carefully bypassing three steers. He finally catches Old Spot and finds the other cowboys. Whitey spends most of his time helping Mr. Smith, the cook. He is subjected to a kangaroo court by the other cowboys. (This is a special court held for new wranglers. They are tried on trumped up charges.) Whitey is a good sport and takes his punishment like a man. (They whip him with chaps.) The next day Whitey helps ride circle. He helps find cow and calves up in the canyons and washes. Back at camp Whitey helps Mr. Smith again. He saves the day when he ropes an angry cow running toward the branding fire in defense of her calf. Whitey is on his way to becoming a fine cowboy.
©2024 Kathy Maxwell at https://bookskidslike.com