The Best Horse Books for Tweens and Teens
Do you have a tween or teen who loves horses? If so, check out our list of the best horse books for this age group!
These books feature heartwarming stories about girls and their horses, as well as exciting tales of equestrian adventures. They will take you into the world of horses and inspire you.
Whether your child rides often or simply loves horses, these amazing books are a must-read. So saddle up and check out our favorite horse books at your local library!
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 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 read 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 coasts of Virginia and the young girl who dreams of owning her. With its vivid descriptions of life on a remote island of Chincoteague 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 the story of Misty 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
The Black Stallion series by Walter Farley is a fantastic choice. It tells the thrilling story of Alec Ramsay, a young boy who rescues a magnificent black stallion from a shipwreck. Packed with excitement and adventure, this series is a great way for young children to discover various horse breeds and the exciting 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 fantastic horse book series for tweens is the Canterwood Crest Academy series by Jessica Burkhart. It follows a group of girls at a prestigious boarding school for horse lovers. With its engaging plots and relatable characters, this series allows tween girls to enjoy their passion for horses while navigating friendship and growing up. There are 18 books in the entire 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.”
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 Wyoming and the bond between a young boy and his own 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. 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 all love horses. Set at their local riding school, the series explores their friendships and their connections with their horses. It’s a wonderful choice for tweens who are passionate about 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 a lifelong love of 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-loving tweens. The story follows a young girl named Grace and her horse, Pilgrim. After a tragic accident, they seek help from Tom Booker, a horse whisperer. With his guidance, Grace and Pilgrim learn to trust each other and develop a strong bond.
Amazon review: ““Such a well written and powerful book. I loved and still love this book so much. It's 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. Loved it. ”, 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’s something out there to capture their imagination. From classics like Black Beauty and Misty of Chincoteague to newer series like Canterwood Crest Academy and Spirit Riding Free, there are plenty of amazing horse books for your young adult to enjoy.
Whether your tween loves riding or just enjoys reading about horses, a great horse book is the perfect gift to indulge their passion for these amazing animals.