Cowboys and cowgirls have been an important part of the American culture for centuries, bringing with them stories of adventure and excitement. Kids love these tales, I know because I have experienced it first hand with my students. In this post, I curated for you some of the best cowboys and cowgirls kids books out there.
Related: Best Western Cowboy Books
Cowboys and Cowgirls Kids Books
From Sue’s adventures at the county fair to Tornado Slim’s magical cowboy hat, these books will transport your kids into an exciting world full of wild west fun and tons of engaging learning lessons! Check them out below:
1. Cowboy Small, by Lois Lenski
In “Cowboy Small,” readers are introduced to the titular character and his life on the ranch with his faithful horse, Cactus. This endearing story captures the daily routines and responsibilities of a cowboy, from rounding up cattle for branding to enjoying communal meals at the chuck wagon. The book celebrates the Western lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of hard work, friendship, and the joy of living close to nature. Cowboy Small and Cactus’s partnership highlights the special bond between a cowboy and his horse, making this tale a delightful introduction to the cowboy life for young readers.
2. Buckaroo Beau Lives on a Ranch, by Kacy Burke
“Buckaroo Beau Lives on a Ranch” offers a glimpse into the life of Buckaroo Beau, a young boy with aspirations of becoming a skilled ranch hand. The story follows Beau as he embarks on his daily adventures around the family ranch, from feeding the animals to assisting with bigger tasks. Through these experiences, Beau learns valuable lessons about responsibility, the value of hard work, and the importance of treating animals with kindness and respect. This engaging narrative is filled with fun and educational activities that provide insight into ranch living, making it an inspiring read for children interested in the cowboy lifestyle and the challenges and rewards of working with animals.
Related: Wild West Stories for Kids
3. I Wanna Be a Cowgirl, by Angela DiTerlizzi
“I Wanna Be a Cowgirl” by Angela DiTerlizzi is a whimsical and imaginative story about a young girl who dreams of being a cowgirl. From dawn till dusk, she engages in pretend play, donning rain boots as her cowboy boots, and using a stick horse to gallop around her backyard. The story is imbued with humor and playful fantasy, capturing the essence of childhood dreams and the limitless imagination of children. DiTerlizzi’s narrative beautifully illustrates how play and imagination can transform ordinary surroundings into a world of adventure and excitement, resonating with young readers who dream of exploring the wild West.
4. C is for Cowboy: A Wyoming Alphabet, by Eugene Gagliano
“C is for Cowboy: A Wyoming Alphabet” takes readers on an alphabetical journey through the natural and cultural wonders of Wyoming. Starting with “A” for the altitude of the majestic Grand Tetons, the book uses a two-tiered approach with rhyming text for younger readers and detailed expository text for older readers. Each letter of the alphabet introduces a unique aspect of Wyoming’s landscape, wildlife, or history, accompanied by Susan Guy’s dramatic and realistic illustrations. This educational and visually captivating book not only teaches the alphabet but also instills an appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the American West.
5. Every Cowgirl Loves a Rodeo, by Rebecca Janni
In “Every Cowgirl Loves a Rodeo,” Rebecca Janni returns readers to the world of Nellie Sue, a spirited girl with a passion for cowgirl life. Nellie Sue brings her cowgirl enthusiasm to the county fair, eagerly participating in games, animal petting, and most of all, the Bike Rodeo. She practices diligently, hoping to outperform the reigning champion, her friend A.J. Pickett. However, when an unexpected challenge arises, Nellie Sue must decide between winning and doing what’s right. This story beautifully blends themes of friendship, sportsmanship, and the excitement of rodeo competitions, all while showcasing Nellie Sue’s unwavering cowgirl spirit and her imaginative approach to everyday adventures.
6. Good Night Cowboys, by Adam Gamble, Mark Jasper
“Good Night Cowboys” immerses young readers in the world of cowboys, capturing the essence of the cowboy lifestyle through a series of engaging scenes. From riding horses and roping steer to experiencing the thrills of rodeos and square dancing, this book explores various aspects of cowboy life, including the iconic clothing, songs, and even panning for gold. Part of the beloved Good Night Our World series, it offers a warm introduction to the adventurous spirit of the Wild West, making it a perfect bedtime read for little buckaroos dreaming of the cowboy life.
7. Cowboys and Cowgirls, by Gail Gibbons
Gail Gibbons’ “Cowboys and Cowgirls” brings the excitement and adventure of the cowboy lifestyle to life through vivid watercolor illustrations and engaging text. This informative book covers the essentials of cowboy life, from clothing and equipment to the daily tasks on a ranch. It also delves into the history of cowboys and cowgirls, featuring descriptions of famous figures from the Wild West. Known for her ability to captivate and educate young readers, Gibbons ensures this book will both inform and delight children fascinated by the cowboy culture.
8. A Barrel Racer’s Dream: A Western Rodeo Adventure for Kids Ages 4-8, by M. D. Ford
“A Barrel Racer’s Dream” introduces children to the inspiring world of barrel racing, emphasizing the importance of dreams, goal-setting, and perseverance. Through this story, young readers will learn about the dedication required to care for a horse, the bond between rider and animal, and the specifics of barrel racing as a sport. The narrative reinforces themes of preparation, persistence, and good sportsmanship, making it an ideal read for young enthusiasts of rodeo and equestrian sports eager to embark on their own adventures.
9. Cowboy Camp, by Tammi Sauer
In “Cowboy Camp,” Avery finds himself at a camp dedicated to training cowboys, facing challenges that make him doubt his abilities. However, when a bully threatens the peace of the camp, Avery discovers his own unique strengths. Tammi Sauer’s tale is filled with lively language and humorous illustrations, capturing the spirit of determination and the importance of being true to oneself. This story encourages kids to embrace their individuality and demonstrates that being a cowboy is about more than just skill—it’s about heart.
10. Tornado Slim and the Magic Cowboy Hat, by Bryan Langdo
“Tornado Slim and the Magic Cowboy Hat” is a whimsical adventure that follows the journey of an ordinary cowboy turned hero, thanks to a magical hat received from a coyote. Tasked with delivering a mysterious letter to the sheriff of Fire Gulch City, Tornado Slim encounters various disasters, only to discover the extraordinary powers of his new hat. Bryan Langdo’s watercolor illustrations bring this original tall tale to life, filled with humor and mystery. This story captivates young readers with its blend of magic, adventure, and the timeless charm of cowboy folklore.
Final thoughts
This roundup of cowboys and cowgirls kids books offers a window into the adventurous and often challenging life of the Wild West. Through the eyes of charming characters and their trusty steeds, children explore vast landscapes filled with excitement and lessons that echo the cowboy code of honor. As our young readers turn the final page of each story, they’re left with more than just tales of lassos and livestock; they gain an appreciation for the enduring spirit of resilience, the importance of caring for others and their environment, and the unbreakable bond between true friends.
