My First Rodeo

Praise

“What a tremendous collection of thoughts, lessons learned, and heartwarming stories about life and parenthood! Parents, grandparents, and even adolescent kiddos will find something in My First Rodeo just for them. For fathers in particular, Stoney brings a clever perspective on the trials, tribulations, and comedies of learning to be a modern-day dad. From life-changing stories that will water the eyes to laugh-out-loud adventures that will bring even more tears, Stoney’s first book is a great read!”
—T. M. “Roe” Patterson, author of the book Crude Blessings and president and CEO of Basic Energy Services Inc.

“From pineapple ‘I love yous’ to a map to heaven, My First Rodeo is a relatable book for dads or any parents doing their best in today’s complexity. A father of five myself, I place my title of Dad as my most sacred calling. Stoney gives insight into dad-hood in the best way possible: from the heart. Fatherhood is not biology; it is not words. It is actions. Three cheers for dads, and thank you, Stoney, for sharing your story!”
—Shane D. Plummer, international horseman and an all-time leading breeder

“Stoney Stamper not only makes me wish I’d grown up on a farm; he makes me want to grab each and every person in my family and give them a great big hug. With colorful stories that include finding love, raising stepdaughters, and saving chickens, each chapter will leave you with either a smile on your face or a tear in your eye. And I challenge you to finish the entire book without breaking into a full-on sob!”
—Kellie Rasberry Evans, co-host of the Kidd Kraddick Morning Show and co-host of A Sandwich and Some Lovin’ podcast

“Stoney Stamper takes you on his journey from old-fashioned cowboy to modern family man in this heartfelt look at fatherhood, love, and life off the beaten path.”
—Ally Carter, New York Times best-selling author

“For any movie or television show you’ve ever loved, you probably loved it because the creators made you feel a personal connection to the characters. Stoney Stamper tapped into the same vein for this book. You will love it because he makes it personal and lets you into his family. You’ll want to come back and visit.”
—Jimmie Tramel, author and Tulsa World pop-culture writer

“Fun, honest, and necessary. There aren’t many options for fathers and men out there sharing truth and keeping it real. Stoney manages to offer that in an engaging and hilarious way. We may have the new Rick Bragg with decidedly less grump.”
—Kalan Chapman Lloyd, award-winning author and attorney

“Stoney has a way with words like no other. Having four kids myself, two of whom are daughters, I found myself relating to many of his stories and at times actually pulling for him, as I have lived some of these same events. Through changing diapers, changing hormones, and everything that comes with being a father to beautiful daughters, I am a fan. Stoney is to words as Robert Earl Keen is to music.”
—Josh West, majority leader for the Oklahoma House of Representatives

“As a happily married father of three who often feels light years away from the life I imagined and the one I have (in the best imaginable way), I’ve found a companion in Stoney Stamper and his bittersweet book My First Rodeo. Stoney took me on a reflective journey filled with tangibly relatable anecdotes and markedly honest commentary—one where I found myself fully immersed in a parallel cathartic experience. Stoney’s honest tone, subtle humor, and ability to capture the fragility of time and the power of love made this a refreshing and memorable read.”
—Daniel Patterson, author of The Assertive Parent

“My First Rodeo is a captivating story of one man’s adventure in all things family. The author takes his audience by the hand, one page at a time, and reminds us that what we think we don’t want just might be the best thing that could ever happen to us. Few authors…few men, even, are so transparent and honest with the struggles, elations, fears, joys, and even challenges that encompass the journey of parenthood. Funny and emotional, My First Rodeo is a must-read. A story of love, maybe even of destiny, Stamper’s endearing tale will leave you wanting more and will evoke a deep need to find your own way back home.”
—Veronica Hix, executive director of ONABEN

“This book builds the bridge between feeling normal and parenthood. Hilarious and relatable, Stoney captivates your attention as he walks you through the beauty and hardships of being the father of a blended family.”
—Catrina Hermenet, blogger and creator of @mommystruth