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Zachary: A Seagoing Cowboy
“This sequel to No Quiet Water gently addresses for young readers the injustices of war. Transporting us this time to Japan, Zachary's goodwill mission brings him face to face with the emotional and physical realities of the aftermath of war.” –Peggy Reiff Miller, Heifer Project historian and author of The Seagoing Cowboys
Zachary Whitlock knows sheep. He knows farming and knows what it's like to have his best friend forced into an internment camp for Japanese Americans. What he does not know much about is goats and traveling by sea on cargo ships, yet he makes a decision to go with a group of volunteers to Japan to help deliver a herd of more than two hundred goats, many of which are pregnant, to survivors of the U.S. bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Goats will provide much-needed milk and nutrition, and people living in the bombed ruins are sick and hungry.
What he also does not know at the age of seventeen is what it means to be seasick, how to navigate the personalities of seasoned seamen, and how to keep not only goats but himself alive during a typhoon.
A fascinating follow-up to No Quiet Water, Shirley Miller Kamada's well-received novel about the WWII internment era, A Seagoing Cowboy is a story full of adventure, human connection, and a young man's coming of age.
Zachary Whitlock knows sheep. He knows farming and knows what it's like to have his best friend forced into an internment camp for Japanese Americans. What he does not know much about is goats and traveling by sea on cargo ships, yet he makes a decision to go with a group of volunteers to Japan to help deliver a herd of more than two hundred goats, many of which are pregnant, to survivors of the U.S. bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Goats will provide much-needed milk and nutrition, and people living in the bombed ruins are sick and hungry.
What he also does not know at the age of seventeen is what it means to be seasick, how to navigate the personalities of seasoned seamen, and how to keep not only goats but himself alive during a typhoon.
A fascinating follow-up to No Quiet Water, Shirley Miller Kamada's well-received novel about the WWII internment era, A Seagoing Cowboy is a story full of adventure, human connection, and a young man's coming of age.
137 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 14, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
November 6, 2025
At the center of Shirley Miller Kamada's historical Young Adult novel Zachary: A Seagoing Cowboy, is 17-year-old Zachary Whitlock; a Quaker who holds to his faith.
When the opportunity comes in 1948 for Zachary to volunteer with Floyd Schmoe's small team from the Heifer Project to take 200, mostly pregnant, goats by cargo ship to post-WWII Japan, he goes.
Filled with enough historical details to inform without overwhelming, Zachary: A Seagoing Cowboy is a well-written, fast-paced, story full of emotion and courage.
As we follow Zachary on his trip across the Pacific we witness his adjustment to the new surroundings. We are right there with him as he faces the challenges of sea travel with a boatload of pregnant goats, one who gives birth to triplets during a typhoon.
After Zachary unloads the goats in Japan he spends time with a Japanese family. Here, he witnesses the devastation and destruction of Tokyo and the surrounding area that occurred near the end of WWII.
In presenting these details, Kamada gives facts from both sides.
What I found most interesting were the details of Floyd Schmoe and Heifer International. Reading this book gave me a new admiration for Floyd Schmoe and his desire to help others in a very real, sustainable way.
If you are looking for an interesting novel filled with accurate historical details about a group of volunteers who brave the Pacific Ocean on a cargo ship carrying 200, mostly pregnant, goats to help people in Japan following WWII, then Zachary: A Seagoing Cowboy should be on your To Be Read pile.
I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. Which is what I gave.
When the opportunity comes in 1948 for Zachary to volunteer with Floyd Schmoe's small team from the Heifer Project to take 200, mostly pregnant, goats by cargo ship to post-WWII Japan, he goes.
Filled with enough historical details to inform without overwhelming, Zachary: A Seagoing Cowboy is a well-written, fast-paced, story full of emotion and courage.
As we follow Zachary on his trip across the Pacific we witness his adjustment to the new surroundings. We are right there with him as he faces the challenges of sea travel with a boatload of pregnant goats, one who gives birth to triplets during a typhoon.
After Zachary unloads the goats in Japan he spends time with a Japanese family. Here, he witnesses the devastation and destruction of Tokyo and the surrounding area that occurred near the end of WWII.
In presenting these details, Kamada gives facts from both sides.
What I found most interesting were the details of Floyd Schmoe and Heifer International. Reading this book gave me a new admiration for Floyd Schmoe and his desire to help others in a very real, sustainable way.
If you are looking for an interesting novel filled with accurate historical details about a group of volunteers who brave the Pacific Ocean on a cargo ship carrying 200, mostly pregnant, goats to help people in Japan following WWII, then Zachary: A Seagoing Cowboy should be on your To Be Read pile.
I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. Which is what I gave.
November 30, 2025
The Review
This was such a powerful and unique coming-of-age story. Exploring a rarely looked at point in history, the book’s narrative follows a young man who witnessed a lot growing up, from the start of WWII to his good friends and neighbors being imprisoned in an internment camp after Pearl Harbor, and finally the aftermath of the two atomic bombs that destroyed parts of Japan. The author expertly weaves descriptive imagery to perfectly showcase the harsh sea voyage and the care these goats receive, all while exploring the more emotional core of the historical events surrounding the protagonist.
The story's bigger themes were brought to life in a fast-paced narrative that captivated the reader. The way the story explores the harsh realities of war, from internment camps and the loss so many Americans felt after WWII, fueling these actions, to the horrors of the bombs on the people of Japan, this story really gave YA readers a lot to discuss. The examination of faith and how it shapes our approach to situations where we want to do the right thing, and, of course, the higher cost of nuclear war, kept the reader invested as the narrative itself became more personal and emotionally driven.
The Verdict
Engaging, thoughtfully written, and memorable, author Shirley Miller Kamada’s “Zachary: A Seagoing Cowboy” is a must-read coming-of-age YA historical fiction read. The balance the author found in storytelling, bouncing back and forth between the protagonist’s life on his family farm and the trip to Japan, and the artful, majestic imagery the author’s detailed writing brought to life, will keep readers invested in this fantastic story.
This was such a powerful and unique coming-of-age story. Exploring a rarely looked at point in history, the book’s narrative follows a young man who witnessed a lot growing up, from the start of WWII to his good friends and neighbors being imprisoned in an internment camp after Pearl Harbor, and finally the aftermath of the two atomic bombs that destroyed parts of Japan. The author expertly weaves descriptive imagery to perfectly showcase the harsh sea voyage and the care these goats receive, all while exploring the more emotional core of the historical events surrounding the protagonist.
The story's bigger themes were brought to life in a fast-paced narrative that captivated the reader. The way the story explores the harsh realities of war, from internment camps and the loss so many Americans felt after WWII, fueling these actions, to the horrors of the bombs on the people of Japan, this story really gave YA readers a lot to discuss. The examination of faith and how it shapes our approach to situations where we want to do the right thing, and, of course, the higher cost of nuclear war, kept the reader invested as the narrative itself became more personal and emotionally driven.
The Verdict
Engaging, thoughtfully written, and memorable, author Shirley Miller Kamada’s “Zachary: A Seagoing Cowboy” is a must-read coming-of-age YA historical fiction read. The balance the author found in storytelling, bouncing back and forth between the protagonist’s life on his family farm and the trip to Japan, and the artful, majestic imagery the author’s detailed writing brought to life, will keep readers invested in this fantastic story.
November 6, 2025
Zachary: The Seagoing Cowboy was a fascinating read about a part of history I never knew about, food aid to Japan after World War II as seen through the eyes of one teenage American boy. This is a great book for YA readers because, in addition to giving us information about the project, it also includes some excitement (hurricanes, runaway kids, bicycle accidents). Within the context of the story it raises several questions that I feel would be interesting in any family or classroom. How do we balance our faith with our desire to do good? What are our feelings about war and specifically, nuclear war? Big questions, but made more approachable by the personal viewpoint offered by this story, where the person grappling with the questions is just 17 years old.
The story is told from Zachary's viewpoint but bouncing between his time on his family farm and his time on a cargo ship on its way to Japan, effectively revealing why he believes what he does. I was pleasantly surprised by some poetic uses of language when describing everything from a tree to an old mill to a hurricane. They were beautiful passages that I wanted to read over several times.
In my opinion, this is a great book for a family to read together as it opens the door to so many discussions.
The story is told from Zachary's viewpoint but bouncing between his time on his family farm and his time on a cargo ship on its way to Japan, effectively revealing why he believes what he does. I was pleasantly surprised by some poetic uses of language when describing everything from a tree to an old mill to a hurricane. They were beautiful passages that I wanted to read over several times.
In my opinion, this is a great book for a family to read together as it opens the door to so many discussions.
August 14, 2025
Hopeful, heartening, yet searing, Zachary-the Seagoing Cowboy is a gentle poem of a book, illuminating aspects of an era we may think we know well. As she did in No Quiet Water, author Shirley Miller Kamada reminds us the cost of World War Two was born not just by the soldiers on the field, but by the civilians caught in the conflagration.
The story follows an American farm boy on a harrowing sea voyage across the Pacific. He is helping deliver a herd of goats to the suffering Japanese—goats that will provide sustainable nourishment to a country of starving people. There is an authenticity and poignancy to the skill and affection Zachary shows for his four-legged charges—especially the mamas who give birth en route. His thoughtful concern is mirrored when he finally arrives in Japan and learns the dire stories of the those his little goats will help.
An uplifting origin story of the Heifer Project, now Heifer International, Kamada reminds us, through Zachary’s journey, that we needn’t rely on governments to fix grave problems. Like this teenage seagoing cowboy, we each have the capacity to use whatever gifts we have to improve the lives of others.
The story follows an American farm boy on a harrowing sea voyage across the Pacific. He is helping deliver a herd of goats to the suffering Japanese—goats that will provide sustainable nourishment to a country of starving people. There is an authenticity and poignancy to the skill and affection Zachary shows for his four-legged charges—especially the mamas who give birth en route. His thoughtful concern is mirrored when he finally arrives in Japan and learns the dire stories of the those his little goats will help.
An uplifting origin story of the Heifer Project, now Heifer International, Kamada reminds us, through Zachary’s journey, that we needn’t rely on governments to fix grave problems. Like this teenage seagoing cowboy, we each have the capacity to use whatever gifts we have to improve the lives of others.
November 10, 2025
This was a quick historical read following Zachary Whitlock who is coming of age and trying to understand all that the war did. Wanting to help with post-war work, Zachary applies to be part of group who will tend to goats on their way to Japan. Having grown up on a farm, he knows this is perfect for him to be a part of and something to be proud of. As his adventure begins, he has to deal with sea sickness, a typhoon, and many who question why he signed up for this position. Zachary puts his all into keeping the goats safe as well as understanding his own beliefs and what this means to him. When they get to Japan, Zachary takes the time to learn about what really did all happen there, what the US did to the country and now what is happening to help repair and fix all the war destroyed. This was a great YA coming of age novel that explores the after effects of WWII and what it means to do what you believe in and what is right. Thank you to the author and publisher for the complementary novel. Thank you to Wow! Women on Writing for the tour invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
August 3, 2025
"Zacharysan?"
"Yes?"
"Is this too much?"
"Yes. But it is the truth, and I wanted to know."
While we are dropped into Ms. Miller Kamada's novel in a gentle manner that belies the drama to be revealed in its final pages, the beginning is fitting to deepen the impact of the young man's revelations upon arriving in Japan a few years after WWII. The author's research is clear from page one, providing the reader with a compelling experience that tracks with Zachary's.
The humanitarian aid provided to Japan at the conclusion of the war is the basis for the story and becomes the launching point for Zachary's coming of age journey, both literal and figurative as he assists in the transport of goats to a starving people.
The understated literary style suits the narrative, stripped of unnecessary emotional descriptions, stark at times in the extreme as Zachary encounters children disfigured by Napalm. As Zachary responds to the question, is this too much, the thoughtful reader will answer in kind. Truth, though painful, is what we need to be truly human.
"Yes?"
"Is this too much?"
"Yes. But it is the truth, and I wanted to know."
While we are dropped into Ms. Miller Kamada's novel in a gentle manner that belies the drama to be revealed in its final pages, the beginning is fitting to deepen the impact of the young man's revelations upon arriving in Japan a few years after WWII. The author's research is clear from page one, providing the reader with a compelling experience that tracks with Zachary's.
The humanitarian aid provided to Japan at the conclusion of the war is the basis for the story and becomes the launching point for Zachary's coming of age journey, both literal and figurative as he assists in the transport of goats to a starving people.
The understated literary style suits the narrative, stripped of unnecessary emotional descriptions, stark at times in the extreme as Zachary encounters children disfigured by Napalm. As Zachary responds to the question, is this too much, the thoughtful reader will answer in kind. Truth, though painful, is what we need to be truly human.
August 14, 2025
A heart-tugging sequel to Kamada's No Quiet Water, this novel offers a moving, richly detailed glimpse of post–World War II humanitarian service through the eyes of a compassionate young Quaker teenager venturing abroad from his isolated home in the Puget Sound.
As Zachary tends livestock aboard a relief ship bound for Japan, readers journey with him toward a country world still reeling from nuclear bombs, firebombing raids, and devastating loss—where kindness must rise above old wounds. Kamada weaves history and heart, exploring the lingering effects of war, American prejudice, and the redemptive power of friendship and service.
I love Kamada's writing--she's penned another enlightening and resonant tale that brings to life a little-known chapter of a mission we often overlook in US history--that of saving lives.
As Zachary tends livestock aboard a relief ship bound for Japan, readers journey with him toward a country world still reeling from nuclear bombs, firebombing raids, and devastating loss—where kindness must rise above old wounds. Kamada weaves history and heart, exploring the lingering effects of war, American prejudice, and the redemptive power of friendship and service.
I love Kamada's writing--she's penned another enlightening and resonant tale that brings to life a little-known chapter of a mission we often overlook in US history--that of saving lives.
August 22, 2025
Eye-opening companion story to Shirley Miller Kamada's NO QUIET WATER, Zachary Whitlock graduates high school early and subsequently volunteers for one of the earliest post-war efforts to bring nourishment to survivors of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. This involves travelling via cargo ship to take more than 200 (mostly pregnant) goats across the Pacific to Japan. Exquisitely researched, dramatic yet gentle, heartfelt yet poignant, ZACHARY: A SEAGOING COWBOY shines a light on a significant, important, but little known moment in history.
November 26, 2025
What an interesting and engaging story! Based on true events and the origin of Heifer International, ZACHARY tells the tale of a teenaged boy accompanying his livestock goats to Japan. The goal is to help the people of Nagasaki, Hiroshima, and other areas affected by nuclear bombings to restore their agricultural way of life and provide food and income for their families. It's such an interesting adventure, and I think it would especially appeal to boys. It's readable and accessible. Recommend!
October 26, 2025
I loved this beautiful story!
I read her first book and it was excellent. This one continues the story and oh WHAT a beautiful ending. Seems particularly important for us to remember these things in our current environment. Thank you Shirley!
I read her first book and it was excellent. This one continues the story and oh WHAT a beautiful ending. Seems particularly important for us to remember these things in our current environment. Thank you Shirley!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews