Welcome to the wild West! Whether your kids are fans of cowboys, armadillos, or simply looking for some exciting stories about the old west, this post has them covered. In it I featured ten great wild west stories for kids, stories that will take them on an adventure through the Lone Star State and beyond.
Every wild West story I included in this list has been through a meticulous vetting process looking at things such as its popularity, its ratings and sales history, readers reviews, age and topic relevance, and many more. My decisions on what to include or exclude are also informed by the expert sources I draw on including Goodreads, Bookriot, Bookshop, among others.
Related: 10 Best Western cowboy books
Wild West Stories for Kids
From The Oregan Trail vy Matt Doeden to Good Night Texas by Adam Gamble, these tales will introduce your kids to unique characters in imaginative settings that they won’t soon forget. Every story is sure to capture your child’s imagination while teaching them valuable lessons along the way.
1. The Oregon Trail: An Interactive History Adventure, by Matt Doeden
This book transports readers back to the era of Westward Expansion in the United States, offering them a chance to live the adventures of settlers on the Oregon Trail. Through interactive storytelling, readers can choose to journey west with their family, guide settlers as a trail leader, or experience the life changes of a western American Indian. The book emphasizes that the outcomes of these decisions—ranging from prosperity to demise—are based on historical realities, providing an immersive educational experience.
2. Cowboy Small, by Lois Lenski
Cowboy Small and his horse, Cactus, share a close bond that helps them accomplish the day-to-day tasks required on the range. From rounding up cattle for branding to enjoying the camaraderie of life on the trail, this story celebrates the essence of cowboy life. Through Cowboy Small’s adventures, readers get a glimpse of the hard work and simple pleasures of ranch living, all wrapped up in the backdrop of the great American West.
3. Buckaroo Beau Lives on a Ranch, by Kacy Burke
This tale introduces readers to Buckaroo Beau, a young, spirited dreamer living on a Wild West ranch. With his horse, Buckles, Beau embarks on daily adventures that teach him about bravery, the value of friendship, and the importance of community. This story captures the spirit of adventure and the lessons learned through exploration and overcoming challenges on the ranch.
4. Cowboy Camp, by Tammi Sauer
In “Cowboy Camp,” readers meet Avery, an unlikely cowboy who’s trying to find his place in the cowboy world. Despite his initial struggles with camp activities and a camp bully, Avery discovers his unique strengths in a moment of crisis. The story, filled with lively language and engaging illustrations, celebrates individuality, courage, and the idea that being a cowboy is about more than just skill with a horse or a lasso.
5. Lasso the Moon, by Trish Holland
“Lasso the Moon” is a tender bedtime story set in the Wild West, where Little Tex and Rio Rosie are tucked into their bunk beds for the night. The book’s lyrical, soothing verses take young readers on a gentle journey to dreamland, capturing the essence of a peaceful night under the vast, starry sky. This story’s calming rhythm and imagery make it an ideal read for settling little cowboys and cowgirls into bed.
6. Armadillo Rodeo, by Jan Brett
Armadillo Rodeo by Jan Brett captures the charming misadventures of Bo, a curious armadillo with a knack for finding himself in the middle of trouble. Mistaking a shiny red boot for a fellow armadillo, Bo sets off on a quest that leads him far from home and into the heart of a bustling rodeo. Along the way, he encounters a cast of characters as vibrant and diverse as the Texas countryside itself. Brett’s illustrations are rich and detailed, inviting readers into a world where every page turn reveals a new facet of Bo’s journey. This story not only entertains but also subtly celebrates the importance of curiosity and the joys of discovering something new.
7. A Barrel Racer’s Dream: A Western Rodeo Adventure for Kids Ages 4-8, by M. D. Ford
A Barrel Racer’s Dream: A Western Rodeo Adventure for Kids Ages 4-8 by M. D. Ford is a heartfelt tale of ambition, perseverance, and the special relationship between a young barrel racer and her horse. Through the eyes of a determined child who dreams of becoming a champion barrel racer, readers are introduced to the thrilling world of rodeo sports. Ford expertly weaves together lessons on the hard work behind the scenes—caring for animals, practicing tirelessly, and embracing the spirit of competition. This story not only serves as an inspiration for young readers to chase their dreams with tenacity but also highlights the values of friendship, loyalty, and resilience.
8. Cowboys and Cowgirls: YippeeYay!, by Gail Gibbons
Cowboys and Cowgirls: YippeeYay! by Gail Gibbons offers an insightful glimpse into the daily life and history of America’s iconic cowboys and cowgirls. From the dusty trails to the wild rodeos, Gibbons’ book is a celebration of the cowboy spirit that shaped the American West. With engaging illustrations and accessible text, readers learn about the gear, clothing, and skills needed to thrive in the rugged frontier. The book also pays homage to famous figures from the cowboy era, making history come alive in a way that’s both educational and captivating for young minds.
9. C is for Cowboy: A Wyoming Alphabet, by Eugene Gagliano
C is for Cowboy: A Wyoming Alphabet by Eugene Gagliano is a delightful exploration of Wyoming’s vast and varied landscape, history, and culture, presented in an alphabetical format that captivates both young readers and adults. Gagliano’s lyrical prose, paired with Susan Guy’s expressive illustrations, guides readers through the state’s natural beauty, from the majestic Grand Tetons to the sprawling prairies. Each letter of the alphabet reveals a new treasure of Wyoming, making learning about this western state an engaging adventure. This book stands out as a rich educational resource that encourages exploration and appreciation of the natural world.
10. Good Night Texas, by Adam Gamble
Good Night Texas by Adam Gamble is a loving tribute to the state of Texas, showcasing its unique blend of cultural traditions, historical landmarks, and natural beauty. Through soothing narratives and colorful illustrations, this book takes young readers on a journey across Texas, from the quiet beauty of Big Bend National Park to the bustling excitement of the San Antonio River Walk. Each page serves as a reminder of Texas’s rich heritage and the many reasons it’s celebrated. Aimed at both children and parents, this bedtime story fosters a sense of pride and wonder in the Lone Star State’s diverse landscapes and vibrant communities.
