During the winter, the cold and dark evenings have you looking for something to do. Even better—something with horses. Since the barn may be lacking in the latest stadium lights, why not find an indoor pursuit that will keep you entertained while teaching you a ton about your favorite subject? Start a horsey book club!
If you prefer to discuss your reading with others, text your barn friends to vote on a book and get started reading. Set a date to meet in person in the next month, and you’ll get to keep in touch with your horsey besties even if you’re not in the saddle as much. You may forge even closer friendships as you spend more time chatting outside the barn.
We’ve rounded up eight titles to get you started. Depending on whether you prefer fiction or practical horse care knowledge, there is something for everyone! All of these titles can be ordered at TrafalgarBooks.com.
Liberty Biscuit by Melanie Sue Bowles
When Kip finds a runaway donkey, her father reluctantly allows her to keep him, along with his two starving horse companions. A court order to return them to their abusive owner turns her world upside down, and Kip knows she must find a way to keep them, or she will have betrayed the best friend she’s ever had. Ages 10 and up.
Little Pearl by Melanie Sue Bowles
Kip struggles with becoming a big sister and discovering new family secrets in the sequel to the crowd favorite Liberty Biscuit. The addition of another rescue horse named Pearl provides Kip a needed purpose as she struggles with growing up. Ages 10 and up.
The Kid’s Guide to Horsemanship and Grooming: Everything You Need to Know to Care for Horses While Staying Safe and Having Fun by Cat Hill & Emma Ford
The most complete and correct guide available for you and your family to learn basic horsemanship standards and how to responsibly apply them. With tons of tips from two professional grooms who regularly teach youth horsemanship clinics, this book features over 800 color photographs. Ages 7-12.
Horse Fun: Facts and Activities for Horse-Crazy Kids by Gudrun Braun, Anne Scheller, and Anika Hage
Real horse knowledge plus super-fun games, quizzes, crafts, and activities. Learn the basics of horse care and equitation, test yourself with equine trivia, and make tote bags, picture frames, jewelry, homemade horse treats, and more. Ages 6-10.
Bolder, Braver, Brighter: The Rider’s Guide to Living Your Best Life on Horseback by Coach Daniel Stewart
Learn how to manage feelings like nervousness when riding or competing, as well as easy steps to getting over mistakes, from the always joyful and fabulous Coach Daniel Stewart. His infectious optimism and memorable takeaways ensure you and your horse are always, no matter what, having fun. Ages 10 and up.
Riding Out: Strategies for Training Outside the Arena to Improve Horse Health and Performance by Ingrid Klimke
Learn basic rules and tips for riding with others and in group formations outside the arena so you stay safe on the trail and in open spaces. Plus instruction for riding through water, steps for jumping small obstacles, and ideas for improving your horse’s fitness, all while exploring the world around you. Ages 10 and up.
No Bored Horses: Essential Enrichment for Happy Equines by Amanda Goble
An animal enrichment specialist and zookeeper explains how to keep our horses from being bored, with instructions on how to make and use more than 30 toys, puzzles, and experiences to help keep your horse happy. Ages 10 and up.
The Illustrated Guide to Saddle Fitting: An Easy Visual Reference to Ensuring Health, Comfort, and Performance for You and Your Horse by Beverly Harrison
Colorful hand-painted illustrations help you learn the different parts of the English saddle, how they work, and how they should fit both you and your horse, so you both can enjoy every ride together and stay healthy. Ages 10 and up.
This article about starting a horsey book club appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Young Rider magazine. Click here to subscribe!
