When my oldest daughter gets a new horse book, she camps out on the couch for days. Yes, she is absolutely horse crazy. She has literally read every horse book for kids that she has ever been able to get a hold of and she’s always asking for more. If you have a child who loves horses, you can probably relate!
Need help weeding through the good and bad when it comes to horse-related literature? We’ve put together a list of some of the good horse books for kids.
The books below are listed in order of reading difficulty. I have used the Scholastic Books reading level scale. The number corresponds with the recommended grade level. Of course, this doesn’t mean that your 4th grade child can’t read 6.0 level material. As the parent, you can decide if your child is ready for the next level.
Horse Books for Kids
Breyer Stablemates Series
This is a great series for the youngest of readers. Each book is about 30-35 pages, making it perfect for the horse lover who is still developing her reading skills. The books are fiction, but each one features a different bread of horse as the main focus. The book ends with facts about that breed. Titles include: Starlight, Patch, Snowflake, Diamond, Dash, Stormy, Belle, Lucky, Fancy, Penny. (Some of these books are out of print, but can be found used.) Reading Level 3.0
Pony Pals
This series contains 30+ simple chapter books for your horse lover. My daughter loved these books all through elementary school. She would sit down with one and read it in under an hour. The plot is child-friendly and exciting. They are easy to get at the local library, too! Reading Level 3.0
Circle C Beginnings
Targeted for early chapter book readers, this series is about a sweet and lovable 6 year old girl named Andi (Andrea). She is just old enough for her first pony. Each of the 6 books in the series features a beautiful moral lesson that Andi and her friend Riley learn as they grow. This series is the earlier or “younger” days for Andi and Riley, the same characters in the Circle C Adventures listed later on in this list. You can find the whole set of Circle C Beginnings here. Reading Level 3.0
Horse Diaries
“For anyone who’s ever dreamed of hearing a horse’s story” is the tagline for this series. First published in 2013, it probably is a new addition for most horse lovers! There are 10 volumes, each featuring a fictional story rooted deep into a particular breed and time period. They are also uniquely set in the part of the world that is most suited for the breed. You’ll travel everywhere from Iceland (c. 1000 AD) to Alabama (c. 1856 AD) as you venture through this exciting historical fiction.
The words are fairly large and the chapters are short, making it a good fit for struggling readers, too. Titles include: Elska, Bell’s Star, Koda, Maestoso Petra, Golden Sun, Yatimah, Risky Chance, Black Cloud, Tennessee Rose, Darcy Reading Level 3.0
Breyer Horse Collection
This is a favorite series because they can be purchased with a matching model horse. My daughter constantly put these horse books on her wish list. Each story is a fictional adventure about a particular breed. Titles in the series include: Little Prince, Wild Blue, Chico’s Challenge, Samirah’s Ride, Mercury’s Flight. Reading Level 3.5-4.0
Animal Ark
This series is about a little girl named Mandy who helps her parents treat animals of all kinds in their veterinary clinic. Our favorite horse selections are: Horse in the House, Foals in the Field, Shetland in the Shed, Pony on the Porch, Pony in a Package, Mare in the Meadow, Racehorse in the Rain. Reading Level 4.0
Sonrise Stable Series
This Christian horse-lover’s series wore the proud title of my daughter’s absolute favorite! Author, Vicki Watson, combines everything we love in life: God, family, friends, horses, and good-wholesome fun! Each book is based on a focal scripture that teaches a beautiful truth through two lovable 8-year old girls, their grandma and HORSES! Titles include: Rosie and Scamper, Carrie and Bandit , Clothed with Thunder, Tender Mercies, Outward Appearances. Reading Level 4.0
Treasured Horses Collection
This historical fiction series is truly a treasure! Sadly, the books are out of print, but I had no trouble finding them used and in the library. Titles include: Ride of Courage, Pride of Green Mountains, Changing Times. There is also a box set, Treasured Horse Collection, which includes 4 books: Riding School Rivals, Pretty Lady of Saratoga, The Stallion of Box Canyon, and Kate’s Secret Plan. Reading Level 5.0
Phantom Stallion
A series full of mystery and adventure, Phantom Stallion leaves you wondering if 13 year old Samantha’s missing horse really could be the wild “phantom” that she so longs to touch. With titles such as The Wild One, Mustang Moon, and Dark Sunshine, it’s easy to see why this best-selling series has won the hearts of so many girls! There are 20+ exciting titles for your adventure! Reading Level 5.0
Hoofbeats
Another historical fiction series, Hoofbeats promises adventure, history and horses. There are two stand alone books: Silence and Lily 1773, and Margret and Flynn 1875. Then there are two girls that have 4 books each. Lara and the Gray Mare is about a young girl who is captured with her horse by a rival clan. Katie and the Mustang is about the struggles of an 9-year old orphaned girl. Reading Level 5.0
The Black Stallion
For over 65 years, Walter Farley has captivated readers with his adventure filled Black Stallion series. There are 20+ horse books written in this series full over bravery, instinct and survival. The first 4 are included in a best-selling Black Stallion Adventures set. Get your sense of adventure peaked with the set or buy them all! Reading Level 5.5
Thoroughbred
Written in the early 1990’s, this series is truly all about horses. The characters are teenage girls who are avid horse lovers. The story focuses on drama involving the horses and not the teenage girls, which is nice. Horses fall ill, win/lose races, and face many other challenges of equestrian life. Although it wouldn’t be mandatory to read in order, it probably would be nice. Some of the books are harder to find available online; however, we still have a good selection at our local library. The first in the series is A Horse Called Wonder. Reading Level 5.5
Misty of Chincoteague
Based on a true story, this is possibly one of the most beloved horse series ever written. It all starts with Misty of Chincoteague, the story of how the wildest horse in all of Assateague Island is pinned with her precious colt, Misty. It’s a story full of whimsy, determination, and blessing. Stormy, Misty’s Foal is then born in the aftermath of a great storm that devastated Chincoteague Island. Readers are captivated as the islanders rebuilt their land. The story continues as Paul and Maureen rescue yet another wild colt in Sea Star: Orphan of Chincoteague. Written nearly 50 years later, Misty’s Twilight is the story of another of Misty’s foals who has the chance to become a dressage champion. Reading Level 5.5
Circle C Adventures
This is the series that kept my 4th grader mesmerized for days. The books captivate with their fast-paced tales about Andrea (Andi), a 12-year old girl living on a California ranch in the 1880’s. The content is definitely for an older reader (I’d say 10-14) as Andrea encounters real-life issues that might frighten a younger reader, such as bullies, a horse thief, the perilous choice to run away from home and even murder (a man gets in a fight with another and shoves him, but he is immediately repentant). However, don’t be alarmed, the scenes deal with these difficult topics in a way that isn’t obscene or inappropriate and the author weaves a beautiful Christian message through each one of the books as Andrea learns to chose the right thing even when the circumstances are really hard.
This series does build on itself and should be read in order. Titles include: Long Ride Home, Dangerous Decision, Family Secret, San Francisco Smugglers, Trouble with Treasure, Price of Truth. Or buy the boxed set of Circle C Adventures here. Reading Level 6.0
Of course, there are lots of great horse books for kids that didn’t come with a sequel to back them up. Some are treasured favorites more than half a century old, others are newer, but still just as treasured. Your horse lover’s shelf will be full of beauty, majesty, and adventure!
As much as my daughter loves fiction, she also very much enjoys reading factual books about horses. She has learned much about caring for horses, riding horses, and even what the various breeds are most known for. Here are some of her favorites.
Do you have a favorite horse book that we forgot to mention? Share it with us!
Jodie @ Growing Book by Book says
We were on the same wave length today! I shared a book list about horses today too. Your list is great compliment to my list which is for little ones. I’ll be sure to share your list with my readers who have older readers. Great ideas, thank you!
Kim Sorgius says
Hi Jodie,
I actually saw your post this morning and pinned it to my horse board! It was so cute!
Here is the post for anyone looking for picture books for younger readers:
http://growingbookbybook.com/2014/04/21/books-horses/
Robin says
Thank you for sharing! My daughter loves horses and I can’t keep her stocked with enough books;)
Tina at Mommynificent says
This is a great and very helpful list! I’d love it if you’d come over and share it at my all-things-books linky party on Thursday – Booknificent Thursdays on Mommynificent.com!
Tina
Angela @ Joy Focused Learning says
I am so glad I saw this today! My little one has recently become fascinated with horses, we will have to check out some of these books!
Amanda says
I was wondering if you have reviewed the series Winnie the Horse Gentler. I downloaded a sample from Amazon today and then noticed tonight they were on Christianbook.com and are faith based.
Kim Sorgius says
The last time I looked at that series, I was uncomfortable with letting her read them. The focus is on troubled teens and that’s just not the content I want for my 9 year old. I honestly haven’t read them, so I don’t know how “dirty” they get with detail.
I’d love to know what others think.
Horse Love says
It is a very great faith based series and I recommend to all girls ages 12+. Yes, it does have an abortion debate, but it is said in a clean, nice way. And that part is pretty short and not a very big part in the book. But it really does have faith based values in there. It isn’t really about troubled teens at all, actually, just a faith troubled girl in there and you get to watch her relationship with God blossom. Amazing, 5-star, series. <3
Shannon says
I allowed my 10 year old to read books 1 and 2 of Winnie the Horse Gentler but not the 3rd as it deals with abortion – there is a school debate on the topic and Winnie is on the prolife side but it is not a topic I am ready to discuss until my daughter is older.
Gretchen says
We have recently become horse owners so this list is perfect for my daughter to learn more, thanks!
J Bowen says
I was a horse crazy girl a long time ago. It’s nice to look back and remember all of these awesome books. Misty, black beauty, king of the wind, the black stallion series. I’d like to recommend one of my all time favorites as well. Smokey the Cowhorse by Will James. Great writer and wonderful illustrations 🙂
Stephanie says
There is a newer horse book out by J.H. Lee that we so enjoyed reading, “Cowgirl Courage” Some one gave us a copy. This book was so well written. It kept my daughter’s attention and was the first chapter book she ever read. This story is clean and fun to read. It has spurred my daughter’s interest in reading and we are now looking for more wholesome books that ofcourse have something to do with horses.
Katharine says
THANK YOU! I am trying to get my first grader interested in reading, but all she cares about is horses. I have been trying to find books on her level she would enjoy and I just hit the jack pot. She rides western pleasure, which seems even harder to find than English. Our bonding time in the evenings is when I read to her and then we talk about what we’ve read. As a Christian family I’m excited to try the Sonrise books you suggested.
I grabbed a box set at the local book store called “Canterwood Crest Academy”. It is about middle school girls at a boarding school. It talks about typical girl back stabbing and clicks and there is a crush on a boy. It focuses on the new girl in school trying to make the advanced English riding team. My 6 year old liked it, but I skipped over parts I didn’t like. And often after I read it to her, I would have to explain the plot line. But it is probably great for a middle school student. It shows how being nice to everyone and pulling from your friends and not worrying about the mean girls will get you though.
Deanna Dickey says
Paint the Wind.
Karin C. says
Keystone Stables book series of 8 is a faith based series for older girls like my 12 year old. My 10 year old daughter isn’t that interested in them-yet! My daughter has only read the first 3, so hopefully we’ll be able to get a hold of the rest. It is still highly recommended and can be added to your list!
Thank you so much for your list, it is pretty thorough. I can’t always read all the books they read, and we try to sift through one’s that wouldn’t be honoring to God for their minds to be thinking on, so thank you again!
Jan says
A good book for anyone who loves horses and who might be facing challenges in their own life. Lots of photographs following the horse from newborn to five years old. True story. Family friendly. A story about discovering yourself and find your own talent. “DARKEN: The Scaredy Cat Champion. ( Amazon in e-book and paperback )
Lisa says
Well done! As an equine professional and a writer of children’s horse books, this helps me a bunch.
Thank you!
Eileen says
The Saddle Club series is a really good horse series. And by now, there is at least over 70 books in the series. It doesnt need to be read in order either. Some things build on each other so it is nice to go in order but you can easily understand what is going on if not read in order.
High Hurdles series by Lauraine Snelling is also a great series. It is a Christian based series with good morals in each book. I think there are close to 15 books in that series as well. And Lauraine Snelling has some other great series that are historical fiction that are great for teens and adults. I still love her books and I have been reading them since I was as young as 12 and I am now 25.
The reading level of the Saddle Club is great for tweens. I’m not sure what the reading level of High Hurdles would be. Maybe late tweens or early teens I’m thinking. I was an advanced reader (I was reading at least 4 RL above the standard for my grade and I was really young for my grade as well) for my age so I am not a good judge on that.
TTB says
Canterwood Crest Academy talks about dating and shunning, the characters kiss and they might get into some fights that last for a while. I’m 12 years old, but I read them when I was 11 years old, so you might want to wait a few years but they are really enjoyable. I’ve read the series probably 8 times, I love them. There is an accident in the 12th book where the stable teacher breaks his leg from his horse landing on his leg in the middle of the road. I love the books, and I don’t even ride horses.
TTB says
The High Hurdles series is also a great series that does deal with a really big fire and the loss of a girl’s consciousness and the skin on her hands along with her hair. It’s very sad and I cried a lot, when she does therapy she screams. It is Christian based and she has to overcome a lot of obstacles, but overall it’s a great series.
Abby says
Try reading, The Christmas I’ll Never Forget, by author David C. Reyes. It has a great storyline and is a very easy read. (Not sure what RL I would place it at). It has a sound biblically based message, along with some great characters. It’s heartwarming and keeps you guessing until the very end as to what is going to happen. It’s a great book for children and family of all ages. It’s available on Amazon, B&N, or most online outlets. Also can be obtained through the author’s website at http://www.dcreyesauthor.com
Lois Szymanski says
I enjoyed this so much! I was a horse crazy girl who raised a horse crazy daughter. “Misty of Chincoteague” helped me get through a rough childhood and made me want to write like Marguerite Henry. And so I pursued that goal.
Over 25 years ago my first book, “Patches” came out with Avon Books. It is the story of a boy and the Chincoteague Pony foal who helps him heal. Since then I have had 27 books published, and most of them are horse books for kids.
Harper Collins released my “Charming Ponies” series many years ago. Then it went out of print, but I am bringing it back in the e-book format. The first book is a re-release of Patches! http://www.amazon.com/Pony-Named-Patches-Lois-Szymanski-ebook/dp/B00TAASQIY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425178359&sr=8-1&keywords=a+pony+named+patches
I also helped create a charity that helps deserving children purchase Chincoteague Pony foals at Pony Penning. This year we (www.featherfund.org) gave away our 31st foal!
Thank you for keeping horse books in front of the kids who love them!
Warm Regards,
Lois
jessie haas says
Fun list! Did you ever run across my Bramble and Maggie series? For younger, beginning readers. I have many horse books for older readers as well, including a large backlist out as e-books.
Christine says
Hi! What a great idea for a post! I have one to add to the list.
The Free Rein series I am writing and it is aimed at 8 – 12 year olds. It focuses on horse care, horse riding and the Christian faith.
Kind regards,
Christine
Nicole Moore says
I’ve recently published the first book from the Shade Break Farm series. Aimed at 9-12 years old, the books follow Sarah and her rescue horse Flynn as they learn about the world of eventing. The first book is a short introduction to all the characters, the next books are longer. The books will have age appropriate themes, no adult situations. There’s a special running on the book tomorrow, you can get it free for 24 hours if you’re interested!
https://www.amazon.com/New-Beginning-Short-Story-Shade-ebook/dp/B01G4YMEF4?ie=UTF8&ref_=cm_sw_su_dp
M says
Do you know anything about Canterwood Academy being appropriate for 9 year olds?
Kim Sorgius says
I’m not familiar with that one. Sorry!
TTB says
Canterwood Crest Academy talks about dating and shunning, the characters kiss and they might get into some fights that last for a while. I’m 12 years old, but I read them when I was 11 years old, so you might want to wait a few years but they are really enjoyable. I’ve read the series probably 8 times, I love them. There is an accident in the 12th book where the stable teacher breaks his leg from his horse landing on his leg in the middle of the road. I love the books, and I don’t even ride horses.
Jessica Girardo says
I’ve been on a no luck search for a while for a book. I read it in the 90’s. It was about a young girl forced to move to live with either her aunt or a friend of her mom’s. The lady has horses and lives in kind of a run down farm/ranch. The girl ends up loving horses and loves riding this certain horse. She ends up making friends with a boy but he is a trouble maker. She follows him on her horse on a trail to this abandoned house where him and older guys have been stashing stolen stuff. Please help! I’m dying to find this book.
Amy says
What about horse fiction for teens? Anything good out there? It can be realistic or fantasy (unicorns, pegasus, etc). TIA
Martha says
You look at Miralee Ferrell’s Horses and Friends series. It is great! Very similar in style to Susan Marlow’s.
Emily M Weddell says
What about the Saddle Club?