Let Er’ Buck! George Fletcher, The People’s Champion by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson Review

by Caitlin Ann Gooch

From riding make-believe broncos to rodeo competitions, Let Er’ Buck! George Fletcher, the People’s Champion by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson perfectly brings to life the story of George Fletcher. Nelson tastefully displays George Fletcher’s cowboy skill, determination, and character as he grows up to compete in the 1911 Pendleton Round-Up Saddle Bronc Championship. I have read Let Er’ Buck to numerous children, parents, students, and teachers. Children marvel at the action-packed rodeo; it keeps them engaged. Teachers start great conversations with their students about inequalities and fairness. I am overwhelmed with emotions by Fletcher’s perseverance to do what he loves; ride the most “unrideable” horses.

Fletcher’s formidable journey highlights the black cowboy of today. Both children and adults will be in awe of the historic content as well as the rise over obstacles meant to deter him from rodeo competitions.

The illustrator, Gordon C. James, captures the essence of the old west in his eye-catching oil paintings. His depiction of horse mannerisms is outstanding. With each brush stroke, he realistically captures the nature and movement of bucking horses and strong cowboys. Readers can visually experience what it would be like to ride bucking broncos, just like George Fletcher.

Overall, Let Er’ Buck! George Fletcher, the People’s Champion is an enthusiastic re.ad-aloud. I recommend it to all readers looking to learn about the forgotten world of the black cowboy