The Bull Ride

Jess jumped into the saddle and kicked his spurs in deep. He had to hurry to catch up. Every year, Jess’s family had a rodeo. It was a family affair, and all of Jess’s aunts, uncles, and cousins would be there.

Jess had been practicing all year for the bull-riding event. The family owned the meanest bull around. His name was Charley. Taking a ride on Charley was like asking to die.

Jess practiced on cows and steers. Ms. Bailey, Jess’s teacher, had encouraged him to write about his experiences. Jess shared one story with the class. Billy Letcump laughed so hard that he fell off his chair when he heard the story. Jess got so mad that he walked over and broke his slate over Billy’s head. Ms. Bailey liked the story, but she didn’t like Jess’s behavior. He was suspended from school for two days.

Thoughts of school vanished from Jess’s mind as he slowed to a stop. When he reached the edge of the corral, he got off his horse and joined his clamoring cousins. Finally, it was his turn.

Uncle Pete helped Jess, while his dad kept Charley in control. The gate flew open before Jess had a minute to catch his breath.

Jess came to and could hear everyone screaming. What had happened?

“You won!” they all screamed. “You beat Uncle Quinn! You stayed on for four seconds!”

Jess rolled over and clutched his aching side—but not without grinning from ear to ear.