• Age: 7 to 12
• Grade: 2 to 7

Howdy, I’m John Ware is a children's picture book about Canada's legendary Black cowboy. The story, ideal for ages 8-12, brings the real-life legend to a new generation of kids.

Despite experiencing enslavement, war and discrimination, this gifted horseman blazed a trail of kindness, becoming one of Alberta’s most loved and respected pioneer ranchers.

This 48-page full-colour illustrated biography includes a timeline, maps and educators' notes. It fits perfectly with the Grade Four curriculum but is suitable for Grades Two to Seven. Also an excellent choice for Black History Month.

To book a Virtual or In-Person school visit by author Ayesha Clough, and/or a draw-along with illustrator Hugh Rookwood, please email info@redbarnbooks.ca. BIPOC author and illustrator.

Ayesha Clough's profile page

Hugh Rookwood's profile page

• Winner, Heritage Calgary Storytelling Award
• Short-listed, Alberta Book Publishing Awards

Ayesha Clough

Ayesha is a former news reporter and editor. She began publishing books in 2019 for her cowboy-crazy son, Derrick #4. She lives in an eccentric blue shed in Carstairs, Alberta, with one hound, two horses, and Derricks #3 and #4.

Hugh Rookwood

Hugh is a comic book artist who, from the time he could hold a pencil, has loved to draw. Hugh mentors young artists and travels the world sharing his art, book covers and game development work. He lives in Airdrie, Alberta, with his wife, two sons, and Cintiq drawing tablet.

"What a delightful and important contribution Howdy, I'm John Ware makes to children's literature in Canada! I hope it takes its rightful place on the shelves of homes, libraries and schools across Canada. – Cheryl Foggo, Calgary Historian, Author and Playwright

“With comic book artist Hugh Rookwood's illustrations to focus on the occasions of the cowboy's life, both challenging and impressive, John Ware's story becomes accessible to all young readers ... It's a story I hope all will read.” 
– Helen Kubiw, CanLit for LittleCanadians