Ranch roping is at the heart of all ranch work, and unlike the rodeo variation of calf roping, the “vacquero” tradition calls for techniques that result in a skillful and graceful throw and catch. Buck Brannaman, a world-renowned master of the art, describes the essential tools, the partnership between horse and rider (incorporating the Natural Horsemanship approach for which the author is famous), and the mechanics needed to become a successful ranch roper, whether in competition or in actual cattle work. One-hundred full-color photographs of Buck in action enhance the step-by-step methodology that leads to mastering this essential Western skill. Whether you ride or rope or just wish you could, here’s a book for everyone who is captivated by Western traditions and contemporary life.

Buck Brannaman, a lifelong working cowboy and one of the most popular clinicians working today, shares his insights on the practical application of roping. Buck explains the fundamentals of rope-handling, basic and advanced swings, the efficient and humane use of a rope on cattle, and safely roping a horse. 40 pages, with more than 100 color photos.

The dime novel and dude ranch, the barbecue and rodeo, the suburban ranch house and the urban cowboy—all are a direct legacy of nineteenth-century cowboy life that still enlivens American popular culture. Yet at the same time, reports of environmental destruction or economic inefficiency have motivated calls for restricted livestock grazing on public lands or even for an end to ranching altogether. In Let the Cowboy Ride, Starrs offers a detailed and comprehensive look at one of America's most enduring institutions. Richly illustrated with more than 130 photographs and maps, the book combines the authentic detail of an insider's view (Starrs spent six years working cattle on the high desert Great Basin range) with a scholar's keen eye for objective analysis.

Contributions by Fred Woodward. Text by Kurt Markus.

Is there a universal language of love, a "kinship with all life" that can open new horizons of experience? Example after example in this unique classic -- from "Strongheart" the actor-dog to "Freddie" the fly -- resounds with entertaining and inspiring proof that communication with animals is a wonderful, indisputable fact. All that is required is an attitude of openness, friendliness, humility, and a sense of humor to part the curtain and form bonds of real friendship. For anyone who loves animals, for all those who have ever experienced the special devotion only a pet can bring, Kinship With All Life is an unqualified delight. Sample these pages and you will never encounter "just a dog" again, but rather a fellow member of nature's own family.

Experienced backyard horsekeeper Joan Fry leads the prospective horse owner through the process of assessing suitable land; choosing a veterinarian and farrier; constructing and furnishing a small barn, paddock, and arena; purchasing a horse; and feeding and care. Of special value to both novice and experienced owners are the sections on feed, which take into account the most up-to-date nutrition research, and training the horse for safe and enjoyable trail riding. Written with encouraging cheer and plenty of “horse sense,” Backyard Horsekeeping leads the way to maintaining and enjoying your own horse on your own property.