Our Summer Equestrian Reading List
Summer is in full swing, bringing longer days, more time in the saddle, school-free schedules, and plenty of opportunities to get lost in a great book. Whether you're reading by the paddock, relaxing on the beach, or lounging poolside, we've put together a summer reading list featuring some of our favorite books for both adults and children.
From inspiring horse stories and timeless classics to fascinating biographies and educational reads, these books celebrate the horses, riders, and adventures that continue to capture our imaginations. So grab a cool drink and enjoy a summer filled with great stories and educational equestrian reads.
For Kids
Horse Power: How Horses Changed the World
Jennifer Thermes’s picture book captures how horses have powered the world for much of human history. Horses and humans have lived, worked, and played together for millennia. Horses made it possible for humans to explore new lands, cultivate the earth, and connect through trade, shaping civilizations along the way. Horse Power offers a unique and fun view of world history through the ears of the horse.
This Way, Charlie
This Way, Charlie by Caron Levis and illustrator Charles Santoso is an adorable picture book about a friendship that grows between a gruff goat and a blind horse, inspired by a true story. The two get off to a bumpy start, but one day Jack summons his courage and guides Charlie to his favorite field, beginning a powerful friendship that changes both of their lives for the better.
Parties & Ponies Cookbook
Parties & Ponies is a fun, child-friendly recipe book for horse-loving kids who want to entertain their friends. Each chapter includes appetizers, drinks, main courses, and desserts, featuring beautiful images and easy-to-follow instructions. It's a great way to kick off a summer barbecue or poolside party.
Young Reader Edition: Marguerite, Misty and Me by Susan Friedland
Introduce young readers to the inspiring story of Newbery Medal-winning author Marguerite Henry and her celebrity pony Misty in this adaptation of Susan Friedland's biography. Learn the secret of Marguerite's writing success, glimpse her relationship with horses and young fans, and experience the famous Chincoteague Pony Swim from a front-row kayak seat.
For Adults
Thoughts on Horsemanship
A surprising discovery of a 26-year-old manuscript allows readers an unexpected visit with Hugh J.B. Cassidy III, sharing his thoughts on training riders and horses, along with his perspective on the equestrian industry during the 1980s.
Schooling and Riding the Sport Horse
Written by respected trainer and educator Paul D. Cronin, this book presents a practical and thoughtful approach to developing a successful partnership with your horse through humane, effective training methods.
Beginning with a concise history of educated horsemanship, Cronin explores the differences between forward riding and classical dressage before examining the American forward riding system. He demonstrates how a rider's position, balance, and use of aids play a critical role in a horse's training and development.
Marguerite, Misty & Me by Susan Friedland
Discover the fascinating story behind beloved author Marguerite Henry in this heartfelt memoir. Susan Friedland embarks on an 8,000-mile cross-country journey to uncover the hidden history of Marguerite Henry and Misty of Chincoteague, the world-famous pony who once lived in the author's own backyard.
From kayaking the waters around Chincoteague Island to exploring archival collections in Minnesota, Friedland follows a trail of clues that leads her closer to Marguerite's remarkable life. Along the way she meets devoted Misty fans, longtime friends, illustrators, and experiences the magic of riding a Chincoteague Pony herself.
Marguerite, Misty and Me celebrates Chincoteague Ponies, horses everywhere, and the people whose lives have been touched by them.
Straight From the Horse's Mouth
This authorized, beautifully illustrated gift book from Hermès pays tribute to the artisans and craftspeople who have been the foundation of the iconic luxury brand since its beginnings as a saddle-maker in nineteenth-century Paris.
Filled with witty stories and charming illustrations, the book features first-person accounts from leather artisans, silk manufacturers, goldsmiths, gardeners, window dressers, designers, electricians, and many others whose craftsmanship has helped shape the Hermès legacy.