Novel (or memoir?) about a boy growing up in the American West. Read around 2012-2017.

[Susan]

On-point, first-person account of a boy growing up in difficult family circumstances on a ranch (reminded me of Jeanette Wall's journey).
Takes place on the plains--Montana, Wyoming, the Dakotas?
Mother is largely absent, dies in a car accident near the end. Grandfather is demanding/abusive.
As the boy becomes older the writing is less compelling than when he is a child. I think the main character eventually becomes a writer

[Rainbowheart]

When did you read it?

[Susan]

at least 10 or maybe 15 years ago

[Rainbowheart]

Father and I Were Ranchers?

But might be too light hearted to be the book in question.

[Lobstergirl, au gratin]

When is the boy growing up?
Author's gender?
Cover?