Life as a cowboy in the Wild West was rarely as glamorous as John Wayne or Clint Eastwood. For the truest grit, you need to read this remarkable novel by Andy Adams. "Reed Anthony, Cowman" is the fictional autobiography of a simple cowman, who after the Civil War migrates to Texas and begins a new life as a cowboy. Told in a diary format, it is steeped in the authenticity and knowledge gleaned by Adams during 12 years in the saddle. The daily drama of struggling to earn a living and to actually live are woven together with descriptions of the epic cattle drives from Texas to Dakota. With gunfights, deadly snakes, showdowns, and rustling... this has the lot! The fairness and kindness of his character, as well as the historical accuracy and vivid descriptions, make "Reed Anthony, Cowman" a satisfying read for all western enthusiasts.
