Justin learns about the racist acts endured by black cowboys of the past during a summer on Grandpa's ranch. He also sees that even Grandpa makes his own bed, bakes and takes charge of the same daily household chores Justin used to hate doing when his mother said he had to. Typical stereotypes of today's males and females dissolve for Justin in this relatively easy to read novel about family ties, family heritage and black history in Kansas ranch country. Black and white pencil drawings illustrate the book. (Ages 7-12)

"Justin gets in here just before you every day, Mama. And he does nothing around here." - Evelyn

"You can make your own egg, Justin." - Hadiya

"Justin, why didn't you clean your room?" - Mama

Justin's sisters and his mama are always fussing at him. No wonder he's glad to go visit Grandpa's ranch. While he's there he will ride his favorite horse, Black Lightning, see the cowboys at the rodeo, and forget all about "women's work."

Mildred Pitts Walter writes with the sure touch of experience. She tells about a very special grandfather and about a boy's struggle to make it in a "man's world" -- even though he is surrounded by women.