The New Black West

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book!

This book is an absolute marvel! The photography in it is absolutely breathtaking- I kept revisiting them over and over again because they were so gorgeous. Though the book is primarily photography, the blurbs included throughout to give context to the Bill Pickett invitational rodeo and the history of Black cowboys. I’m not sure how large this book is but I think it would make a lovely coffee table book!

Highly, highly recommend!

A powerful symbol of self-reliance, strength, and determination, the Black cowboy is a figure commonly overlooked in the histories of the American West. Held annually in cities across the United States, the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo (BPIR) honors the historic accomplishments of Black cowboys and fosters a vibrant community dedicated to continuing that legacy. Bay Area photographer Gabriela Hasbun has spent more than a decade photographing this beloved event in the Oakland hills. Her images capture the joy and excitement of performers and audience members, showcasing the daring feats, spectacular outfits, and welcoming atmosphere that make the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo an unmissable experience. In addition to Hasbun's photographs, The New Black West features quotes and stories from the cowboys themselves and a foreword from the Oakland rodeo's regional manager, Jeff Douvel.

A VIBRANT COMMUNITY: The Black rodeo in Oakland is the annual event at the heart of a vibrant community. Couples meet and fall in love at the arena, children eagerly anticipate their turn to compete in the different events—and people travel from all over the area and the country to participate.

AN IMPORTANT LEGACY: Named after legendary cowboy and performer, the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo honors the often-overlooked legacy of Black cowboys in shaping the American West. Hasbun's book spotlights the contemporary riders and performers who carry on that legacy, inviting them to share their own stories with the world.

A UNIQUE CELEBRATION: Hasbun has been photographing the Black rodeo in Oakland for a decade, and this collection of her work is a loving tribute to the community that kept her coming back year after year. Stories from her conversations with the cowboys and cowgirls bring her images to life, making The New Black West a heartwarming celebration of an iconic cultural event.- Goodreads

I am fascinated by Black Cowboys and their history. It is a history that is not being told. But also the fact that it is alive and well is something that isn't being told either. I don't know if I have family history from the West (I can only assume because my family is huge) but I want to (LOL). I think it is the coolest thing being able to take care of and ride horses. This book only confirmed that fact.

I love the colored photos. They make a statement. A bold one; a necessarily one; a 'I am here and will always be here' one. I really love the fact that the author and publishing company choose to do it that way.

Because I knew nothing about the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, the stories that were told by each rider and learning rider, moved me. You can feel how important this is to them; to their community and I like the fact that the author collected their words and told their story exactly how they said it and how the book is mostly based of that. Yes, there is insight and some added details but I hear the word directly from these Cowboys and Girls.

One story I liked, in particular, is about Ashanti Samuels and how he found a path with horses and it lead him to opening Rainshadow Organics with a partner. I love hearing stories of Black people farming and working the land. It's in our blood and has long been ignored and shunned.

This book is not only a great coffee table book but it is a good read, informative, feel good non-fiction read that gives you that extra smile on your face. It isn't overly long, the photos are beautiful and it is an impactful read.

Overall, I plan to buy the physical copy as well.

5 Pickles

A truly beautiful book exploring Black cowboys and cowgirls, their community, and how Black cowfolk have influenced and shaped the west. The foreword and artist statement give a great background to why the book is important — Black cowboys and their communities are often overlooked despite having a huge role in shaping and exploring the western USA — as well as information about the rodeo and community in the Bay Area being photographed.

The captions throughout continue to educate the reader about the rodeos, the history, and the people. The photos are a beautiful blend of portraits, action shots, and candidate photos. A huge array of topics were explored, from fashion to at-risk youth learning to ride to participation of cowboys in Black Live Matter protests. I learned a lot and was truly inspired by this book and would highly recommend.

A perfect art book for fans of Idris Elba's new film, Concrete Cowboy. Filled to the brim with high quality photographs of sunny California and its black cowboys, this book is a must-have for your shelves and for your library.

I'm almost pressed to say that this is a fashion book as well, what with the amazing outfits, boots, hats, and saddles. Even the horses look designer!

It was amazing to take a glimpse into a culture I didn't even know existed until a few months prior, to see the glamour, the glitz, the revolutionary counter-culture arguing that cowboys are not just white actors in spaghetti westerns. Ultimately, an absolutely beautiful book.

What a delightful read! This was a peek into a world I knew nothing about that made me want to book a ticket for Oakland. CA right away. Reading this in electronic format does not do it Justice and I will be ordering the hardback.