The Best Horse Books for Tweens and Teens
Are you a tween or teen who loves horses? Or perhaps you have a child who is horse-crazy? If so, then you'll want to check out our list of the best horse books for tweens and teens!
From heartwarming stories about the bond between a girl and her horse to thrilling tales of equestrian competition and adventure, these books will transport you to the world of horses and leave you feeling inspired and empowered.
Whether you're a seasoned horseback rider or simply love these majestic creatures from afar, these books are a must-read. So saddle up and dive into our list of the best horse books for tweens and teens!
I hope you will grow up gentle and good, and never learn bad ways. - Black Beauty
Black Beauty
One of the most classic horse books for tweens is, of course, Anna Sewell’s Black Beauty. This timeless story, first published in 1877, tells the tale of a beautiful black horse and his various owners throughout his life. Black Beauty’s story highlights the importance of treating animals with kindness and respect, and it is a great way for young readers to gain a deeper understanding of horses.
Amazon Review - “I gave this as a gift to a young girl who loves animals, and had fallen for a black horse at a ranch where I volunteer. The story is awesome, and I thought this was a nice edition for a gift.”
Goodreads rating: 3.98
Ages: 10 years and up
2. Misty of Chicoteague
Another great horse book for young readers is Marguerite Henry’s Misty of Chincoteague. This book tells the true story of a wild horse who lives on an island off the coast of Virginia and the young girl who dreams of owning her. With its vivid descriptions of life on a remote island and the bond between a young girl and her horse, Misty of Chincoteague is a must-read for any young horse lover.
Amazon review: “I remember this story from when I was a young horse lover. I recently re-read and thought my granddaughter would enjoy it.”, Kendra L.
Ages: 7 - 10 years
3. The Black Stallion
For slightly older readers, The Black Stallion series by Walter Farley is an excellent choice. This series follows the adventures of a young boy named Alec Ramsay and his beloved black stallion, who he rescues from a shipwreck. The Black Stallion series is full of excitement and adventure, and it is a great way for young readers to learn about different horse breeds and the world of horse racing.
Amazon Review: “I purchased this book for "read long" sessions with my Grandson. While his reading skills are still developing, he could not help but fall in love with the classic story of a boy and his horse. I read the book at 12, my son read it at 11, and now with this copy, my Grandson is learning the joy of Mr Farley's story telling. Three generations recommend this book!”, DKnightSr
Goodreads rating: 4.19
Ages: 8 to 11 years
4. Take the Reins (Canterwood Crest #1)
Another great horse book series for tweens is the Canterwood Crest Academy series by Jessica Burkhart. This series follows the lives of a group of young ladies who attend the Canterwood Crest Academy, a prestigious boarding school for horse-crazy girls. With its drama-filled plot lines and relatable characters, the Canterwood Crest Academy series is a great way for tween girls to indulge in their love of horses while also exploring the complexities of friendship and growing up.) There are 18 books in the series.
Amazon Review: “Take the Reins was everything I expected and more. For those who are looking at this and going "...but I'm not really into horses....", don't worry. Take the Reins is not all about horses. I felt that there was equal parts horses, friendship problems, and just being on your own for the first time. And there was a tiny hint of romance towards the end.”
Goodreads rating: 4.30
Ages: 9 - 13 years
5. Mary’s Song: Dream Horse Adventures
This award-winning story follows a young artist who falls in love with a lame foal. Despite little hope for a successful surgery, Mary is determined to raise the necessary funds, even if it means sacrificing her relationship with her father. A must-read for fans of classic horse books like The Black Stallion, Black Beauty, and Misty of Chicoteague.
Amazon Review: “If your reader loves horses, this is hands down, our favorite author! Susan Count writes so fluidly, with such realism, it transports BOTH adult and child into the story!”
Goodreads rating: 4.35
Ages: 8-12
6. My Friend Flicka
For younger kids, the Flicka series by Mary O’Hara is a great choice. The first book in the series, My Friend Flicka, tells the story of a young boy named Ken McLaughlin and his beloved horse, Flicka. With its beautiful descriptions of the Wyoming countryside and the bond between a young boy and his horse, My Friend Flicka is a perfect way to introduce younger readers to the world of horses.
Amazon review: “I now know why this is such a classic. This one goes straight to the heart. I voluntarily chose to review this. I've given it a 5* rating. For any horse lover, this will be a though one on your heart. There are some tragic parts where horses are hurt or die. However, the love of a boy for his horse is more intense. So keep the tissues handy when you read this”, Nancy L.
Goodreads rating: 4.16
Ages: 8-12 years
7. War Horse
Of course, no list of great horse books for tweens would be complete without mentioning Michael Morpurgo’s War Horse. This novel, which has since been adapted into a successful play and film, tells the story of a young boy named Albert and his beloved horse, Joey, who is sold to the British army during World War I. With its powerful message about the bond between a boy and his horse and its insightful look at the horrors of war, War Horse is a must-read for all young adults who love horses.
Amazon review: “Although this is intended as a children's book, it has plenty for the adult reader, offering more depth than many books written for adults for adults. The narrative style is sufficiently engaging that it has great potential for reading at a single sitting.”, Ninaminacat
Goodreads rating: 4.15
Ages: 10+years
8. Flashes of Ember (Tales of Shalock Stables 1)
Geona, a 12-year-old horse enthusiast, lives at Shalock Stables but isn't allowed to be around the horses. When she comes across a badly beaten chestnut filly who escapes into the perilous Razors, Geona breaks the rules to find her. However, she soon finds herself in trouble and must rely on Adoyni for help. Will she find Ember and make it back home safe?
Amazon review: “I liked the fact that it was an adventure. I LOVED the cover! And I am looking forward to reading the next in the series!” --Kaylyn, Age 10
Goodreads rating: 4.24
Ages: 8-12 years
9. Horse Crazy (The Saddle Club #1)
The Saddle Club series follows the adventures of three best friends, Stevie, Carole, and Lisa, who share a love of horses. The series is set at the local riding school, and it explores the girls’ relationships with each other and with their horses. The Saddle Club series is a great book for tweens who love horses and want to learn more about horseback riding.
Amazon review: “I gave it 4 stars because it was fantastic but Bonnie Bryant has written better. I would recommend this book to all horse lovers and girls how love the power of friendship and don't just stop here you should definitely read the whole series!!! I LOVE THE SADDLE CLUB!!!!!!” - Rhonda T.
Goodreads rating: 3.90
Ages: 8-12 years
10. Great Horse Stories for Girls
Horsewoman Rebecca Ondov invites tweens (ages 8 to 12) to experience life around horses—caring for them, getting to know their personalities, training them, and loving them. Girls will enjoy these true stories of interacting with horses and encounter life-changing truths that will help them grow strong spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.
Amazon review: “Perfect book! Just what I wanted for my 11 year old. I was looking for a book that we could enjoy together as well as, grow her faith and help prepare her for the changes in middle school.”
Goodreads rating: 4.55
Ages: 8-11 years
11. The Horse Whisperer
The Horse Whisperer by Nicholas Evans is an inspiring read for horse-crazy tweens. The story follows the journey of a young girl named Grace and her horse, Pilgrim. After a tragic accident, Grace and Pilgrim are brought to the horse whisperer, Tom Booker. Through his help, Grace and Pilgrim learn to trust each other and form a powerful bond.
Amazon review: “Such a well written and powerful book. I loved and still love this book so much, its very long and takes a long time to get through if you don't read that much or for too long. but if you love reading like me this is a book that you will find very hard to put down. love it was bought on my kindle, which I had no problems with at all.”, Ellie N.
Goodreads rating: 3.84
Ages: 12+ years (for more advanced readers)
No matter what kind of horse book your tween is looking for, there is sure to be something out there that will capture their imagination and keep them turning the pages. From classic novels like Black Beauty and Misty of Chincoteague to newer series like the Canterwood Crest Academy books and the Spirit Riding Free books, there are so many amazing horse books out there for young readers to discover.
So whether your tween loves riding horses or just loves reading about them, there is no better way to indulge their love of these majestic creatures than with a great horse book.