Tomorrow is Cowboy Ned’s birthday and he is far from home with only his trusty horse Andy to keep him company on the cattle drive. Andy decides that he must get a birthday cake for Ned, so he wanders out into the desert on a quest. He meets a cricket, an owl and a scorpion, but they are of no help. Finally a lonely old cowboy reminds Andy that Ned would enjoy his friend’s company more than any other gift. So Andy runs back to Ned, the cattle sing “Happy Birthday,” and all is well. Stein employs simple, direct sentences, crisp conversation and a smattering of vivid description to convey his gentle message to young readers. Bright, clear ink-and-watercolor illustrations in shades of blue and brown present Andy as a loving, warmhearted friend. He tosses and turns, unable to sleep; his expression is earnest as he speaks to the desert creatures; he is jubilant as he hugs his friend. Warm, fuzzy and friendly. (Picture book. 3-6)
