SO YOU WANT TO BE A COWBOY

This debut picture book includes two tales in rhyming verse about choosing a career and playing outdoors.

In the title story, a freckle-faced, brown-haired girl aims to become a singing cowboy (the gender-specific term is used generically here). Her mother—singing a song of her own—agrees that’s “a mighty fine choice,” and so are many others, including teacher, truck driver, cleaner, librarian, and doctor. Whatever the case, says the girl’s mother, “I’ll be beside you when you follow your heart.” The second tale, “Can I Go Out and PLAY,” stars a brown-haired boy who has finished his chores and homework and is tired of watching TV, which is airing the girl playing her cowboy guitar. The boy longs to have fun outside with his friends, promising his mom to be home before dark. In his book, Teruel provides catchy rhythms and a jaunty voice, particularly in the first piece. But the messages—follow your dreams; ask politely—aren’t especially new or engaging. The uncredited digital illustrations in bright, clear sherbet colors are skimpy on details but have energy. In the images, the main characters are light-skinned while others are diverse.

Two children’s stories offer enjoyable elements but familiar messages.