In Jack’s boisterous family, ranch life is one noisy stampede with the boy trampled in the shuffle. Jack shares his plans to visit the local mountain with each relative, but his words fall on deaf ears. Even siblings June-bug and Jim-bob misinterpret his announcement and start a rousing game of hide-and-seek instead. Frustrated, Jack travels to the mountain with Chester, his inanimate canine cohort. Once they’re alone, Meserve’s digitally rendered illustrations depict the stuffed pooch reciprocating the conversation; in a delightful touch to his wrangler wardrobe, Jack’s oversized cowboy hat falls down his face in wonderment. He learns to express himself clearly and connects with the wild animals he encounters. As night approaches, lost Jack’s successful call reunites his family; his mighty “QUIET, PLEASE!” demands attention as he recalls the eventful day. Varied colors enliven the tale, conveying the shifts in mood as the vast purple skies transform into the warm orange glow of hearth and home. Shout yee-haw for cowboy Jack, who finally finds his voice. (Picture book. 4-7)
