In the Depression ravished 30's did a poor farm boy or girl have a greater love than their pony or dog? The author recounts his experiences and those of his neighbors in and around Manning, Iowa, the author's hometown. In carefully crafted fiction, boys attempt to win a race with plow horses. In a true story, hear the words of his father instilling a horse-trading reality in him and how his father managed to keep his cool when a team proves smarter than his son, an honor student. In larger-than-life stories, a plodding horse halts a runaway boy; a colorful team of horses promotes romance and a dog saves a marriage. Share in the exploits of the mischievous apprentice dog that creates confusion and attempts to take credit for the entire evening roundup. Or learn of the lovable dog too scared to hunt; how a dog saves a boy's life, and another saves a girl. Meet the boy who enjoys dining with the President's dog. The author retells the tales of true animal heroes for "children" of all ages, recalling the time in rural America where 'making do' was the only way there was.

Who hasn't questioned, "Who were my great-grandparents?" "Where did they live?" "What did they do?" My daughters asked these questions and more. At their requests I began to write a family history, including successes and failures. No pirates were found lurking, but I located two murders. Families do not live in a vacuum. I included in-laws, friends, neighbors and strangers who touched our lives. As stories and traditions molded the family, so did the times in which we lived. The story of our family is part of the history of our town, state and nation. This saga is a microcosm of the nation, rising out of Depression, wining a global war, in a unity of spirit, soaring to the happy heights of togetherness. A zenith, alas, that this nation probably will never achieve again. Inescapably, this book is also the story of my life.

During the war, soldiers shared newspapers and magazines. A coed pictured might be elected, "The Sweetheart of the 116 Infantry," or "The Girl Company B would most like to take to the movies." Election frequently resulted in letters and pinup photos. The Flying Tigers, the l4th Air Force, had Chinese speaking American, Dorothy Yuen, "in the flesh." Her dedication, courage, and devotion to duty earned Dottie-as they called her-medals and their utmost respect. Dottie shared their hopes and dreams-and their fears. Sometimes she joined their poker games. Dottie was the girl they dreamed of marrying. Alas, it was not to be. When the war ended, they married the girl back home, and sometimes talked too much about Dottie. To them, the Gentle Tigress remained a star-the real thing. When peace returned, poker became popular. Some Flying Tiger veterans attended annual reunions just to play. None of them realized poker would provide the vehicle to uncover murder.

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Gerald tells of the very unusual animals he would add to the zoo, if he were in charge.

The anthology "60 WESTERNS: Cowboy Adventures, Yukon & Oregon Trail Tales, Famous Outlaws, Gold Rush Adventures" encapsulates the essence and ethos of the American frontiers, offering an exploratory journey through the diverse terrains of Western literature. This collection is remarkable not only for the breadth of its geographic and thematic scope but also for the variety of its literary styles, including adventure tales, reflective narratives, and depictions of historical events. The selected works engage deeply with the complexities of frontier life, reflecting on the themes of bravery, exploration, conflict, and the relentless pursuit of freedom and prosperity. Standout pieces within the collection vividly reanimate the rugged landscapes of the American West, making tangible the untamed spirit of its inhabitants and the period's cultural ethos. The contributing authors and editors to this comprehensive collection bring a wealth of perspectives to the evocation of the Western experience. Comprising icons such as Mark Twain, Jack London, and Willa Cather, among others, the anthology intersects with critical historical, cultural, and literary movements spanning the tumultuous Gold Rush era to the mythic storytelling of the Yukon. The magnitude of contributing talents provides a panoramic view of the West, delving into its legends, its hardships, and its enduring allure. Collectively, their works offer profound insights into the transformation of the American landscape and identity. "60 WESTERNS" invites readers to traverse the rich and varied landscapes of Western American literature. Each story, drawn from a unique voice and perspective, weaves together a broader narrative of struggle, survival, and triumph against the backdrop of some of history's most defining moments and locales. This anthology stands as an indispensable resource for students, historians, and literature aficionados alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted tapestry of Western American culture and the narrative potential it holds. Through engaging with this extensive collection, readers are given the unique opportunity to explore the frontiers of human experience, guided by some of the most influential voices of American literature.