After years of waiting, it is finally Libby Ryan’s turn to shine at the Practical County Fair. Libby is filled with excitement as she and her granddad pick out two calves for her to raise on her family’s cattle farm, in hopes of winning the annual steer competition. Against her father’s advice, Libby gives the calves names, even though both steers will eventually be auctioned off to the highest bidder.

What’s the big deal?  She’s lived on a cattle farm forever.  But, after a few months of preparing for the Practical County Fair, Libby finds that she is becoming more and more attached to her steers.  When Libby’s mother convinces her to enter the Beef Princess pageant, Libby realizes that she’ll have to face off against the dreaded Darling sisters.  Suddenly, everything related to the Practical County Fair feels like a big deal. 

The Beef Princess of Practical County is a refreshing tale that rural readers and their urban cousins alike will enjoy!