Cowgirl Dreaming

A child narrates her experience riding in her first Black Cowboy Parade across a step-by-step picture book from Owens (A Song So Black, So Proud!) and Pinkney Barlow (Little Rosetta and the Talking Guitar). Awakening from a dream of a cowgirl jumping over the moon, the protagonist details her nervousness about taking part in the upcoming parade. But the familiar presence of her palomino pony, Garbo—who is just as anxious—gives the rider an opportunity to soothe them both (“Breathe in, breathe out, it’s cool”). Mama, too, offers steady reassurance while reflecting on their family’s long line of Black equestrians. And the parade takes on further meaning as the duo travel past candles set out for the protagonist’s much-missed brother and the riders raise banners calling for an end to gun violence. While the late-emerging activist emphasis feels abrupt, sensate prose, paired with colored pencil and digital collage illustrations, ground the day, making for a sincere homage to cultural legacy and community strength. Creators’ notes conclude. Ages 4–8. Author’s agent: Karen Grencik, Red Fox Literary. Illustrator’s agent: Lori Nowicki, Painted Words. (May)