Part nature essay, part social commentary - a fascinating exploration into all things bovine, from the origins of the Black Angus breed to the rigours of running a family ranch.
Writer MR Montgomery is fascinated by the world's most intelligent cow: the Black Angus. Its original home was Angus shire in Scotland, but it is now raised around the world, and prized as the finest of beef.
Montgomery's keen interest in cows began years ago on his cousin's Montana cattle ranch. He provides a fascinating exploration into all things bovine, from the origins of the Black Angus breed, to methods used in encouraging good mothering skills and rooting out genetic disease in a herd, to observing the intriguing characteristics of herd behaviour.
The Black Angus is its own logo, its own icon. The black cow is the symbol of excellence, of taste and tastiness. You've seen the silhouette in better supermarkets, fancier restaurants and even in 'The Sopranos'. The Angus is a special case, not just another "hamburger on the hoof".
At its core, this is a book about cows that are capable of surviving the harsh conditions on the range - "cows and bulls with personality".
After reading the remarkable story of the Black Angus, even ardent cow lovers will have a new appreciation for the objects of their affection.
