By Taylor MacPherson

P.A. author launches children’s book series

Mar 11, 2017 | 3:00 PM

A local author has translated her love of rodeo and her personal experiences raising three sons into a series of children’s books.

Kelley Byrne’s new books Bull Fighter Billy and Too Tall Billy were launched March 11 at Prince Albert’s John M. Cuelenaere Public Library. Byrne said the books tell stories of Billy Buck, a rough-and-tumble boy growing up on a ranch and dreaming of following in his father’s footsteps by becoming a cowboy.

The rodeo-themed books closely mirror Byrne’s personal experience. Byrne attended the University of Montana on a rodeo scholarship and still competes in barrel racing. Her three sons, Bo, Jesse and Tanner are all professional rodeo athletes as well; Tanner as a bullrider and Bo and Jesse as bullfighters.

“[Too Tall Billy] is about Tanner, who rides bulls and was told maybe that he’s too tall to follow his dreams,” Byrne said. “So they’re all inspirational and motivational.”

Byrne, who previous worked as a journalist with the Canadian Coyboys’ Rodeo Association, said she enjoyed working with a local illustrator, Arthur Karakochuk, who provided the visuals for her books.

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“He’s a local gentleman from here in Prince Albert,” Byrne said. “He brought life to my stories, and I just love the way he’s portrayed the boys in all the books.”

Byrne said she enjoyed writing the children’s books, and hopes to continue the adventures of Billy Buck in future books.

“I love writing for children,” Byrne said. “I really feel that kids can take something out of these books and follow their dreams.”

Taylor.macpherson@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @TMacPhersonNews