A young horse lover’s life is not complete without a selection of the best horse books for children on their bookshelf. The best horse books are great gifts for horsey children as they’ll be read again and again.
At Horse & Hound, we all have such fond memories of flicking through our favourite horsey books and they definitely played their part in fuelling our lifelong love of horses. If you’re looking for a book to gift a pony-mad child, here’s a selection stories and fact books that are definitely worth a spot on their shelf.
Best horse books for children
The Starlight Stables Gang
First in the series from superstar equestrian influencer and YouTuber Esme Higgs. H&H’s Martha Terry says: “This is a fun and gripping adventure story with a strong message of inclusivity.” Read our full review.
Jill & The Lost Ponies
This book picks up from where the series left off in the 1950s. H&H’s Eleanor Jones says: “A great read for fans of the original series, but also for pony-loving children who are yet to discover Jill.” Read our full review.
War Horse
This is an adaptation of the much-loved novel War Horse for a younger audience. It tells the enduring story of a friendship between a boy and his horse and is a gateway to help children understand the history of the First World War.
Finding Wonder
A superbly told adventure story with a rich plot and engaging characters. H&H’s Martha Terry says: “I found it completely enthralling. As in all great detective stories, you never quite know whom to trust, and how the mystery will unravel.” Read our review.
JoJo’s Jump
The time has come for JoJo to put her best hoof forward and try her first jump. With the support of her friends, she is reminded to believe in herself. H&H’s Jennifer Donald says: “This book is ideal for young children, conveys a powerful and inspiring message, and is written with a lovely lilt.” Read our full review.
All Things Ponies & Horses For Kids
This colourful book filled with pictures aims to combine fun with education to help young pony lovers learn all about horses.
The Complete Book Of Horses
This book, in a new large format, is an invaluable guide to every aspect of horsemanship, with a fully illustrated directory of breeds of the world, step-by-step instructions on how to ride, and information about specialist equipment for both horse and rider.
Ned Gets Worried
This charming story has a gentle message about children’s natural anxieties explored through the eyes of a pony and a horse. H&H’s Jennifer Donald says: “My son enjoys the story tremendously on face value, but dig a bit deeper and it’s a great catalyst for discussing childhood fears and anxieties with little ones.” Read our full review.
The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse
This gorgeous book is based on Charlie Mackesy’s illustrations. It follows a boy on his journey home, where he meets new friends, the fox, the mole and the horse. The simple and thought-provoking stories are loved by readers of all ages.
The Racehorse Who Learned To Dance
Written by Clare Balding, this is the third instalment of Charlie Bass and her accidentally purchased racehorse (following The Racehorse Who Wouldn’t Gallop and The Racehorse Who Disappeared) and they are facing their greatest challenge yet.
The Pony Club’s Manual Of Horsemanship (14th ed.)
First published in 1950, the current 14th edition is as relevant now as each and every one of its predecessors were. H&H’s Georgia Guerin says: “For young horse lovers looking for an all-round reference book, it’s still hard to beat.” Read our full review.
The Hairy Pony’s Christmas Party
H&H’s Sarah Jenkins says: “Perfect for an early Christmas gift to read on Christmas Eve, this book is one that will be chosen at bedtime year after year.” Read our full review.
Snow Foal
When 11-year-old Addie goes to stay with a foster family on a remote Exmoor farm in the midst of a very cold winter, she is full of hurt, anger and a deep mistrust of everyone around her. Until one day, when she rescues a tiny wild foal from the moorland snow and Addie discovers that perhaps she’s not so alone after all.
Sunshine Stables: Poppy and the Perfect Pony
Written by the same author as popular A Pony Called Secret and The Palamino Pony series, this series tells the stories of different girls and the ponies they are paired with during their stay at pony club.
Gallop! 100 Facts
Packed with weird-but-true facts and tons of horsey info, this book gallops right into the world of horses – from wild ponies and superstar racers to the shared history of humans and horses.
Globetrotter: Meriden Travels The World
H&H’s Sarah Jenkins says: “This book will delight young horse and pony enthusiasts whether they are already competent readers themselves or enjoy a bedtime story.” Read our full review.
You might also be interested in:
Great horse games, toys and craft sets for all ages
11 personalised gifts that are perfect for any equestrian
64 great gift ideas for pony-mad children
The best horse books of all genres for all ages
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