1. What inspired you to create WeReadHorseBooks.com, and how did your own love of horses and reading shape the vision behind it?
We Read Horse Books was born out of a lifelong passion for both horses and storytelling. As someone who grew up loving horses and the books that brought them to life, I wanted to create a place where kids could experience that same magic. I started the program in 2022 to bring together readers, authors, and horse lovers from around the world. The vision was simple: connect young horse loving readers with their next favorite horse book. The program is built around fun reading adventures, book badges, and activities that celebrate equestrian stories of all kinds.
2. What are some of your favorite recent horse book discoveries, and what makes a horse story really stand out for young readers?
In 2023, I made a promise to myself: to dive deep into the world of horse books and I haven’t looked back. Since then, I’ve read over 150 titles ranging from charming picture books and heartfelt middle-grade stories to page-turning YA adventures and even novels for adult readers. The heart of my reading list definitely leans toward middle grade, where so many incredible horse stories live.
Some of my standout favorites for readers include Even If It Breaks Your Heart by Erin Hahn, Cressida Burton’s Ravensbay series, and Lizzie Flying Solo by Nanci Turner Steveson. Each of these books blends authentic horse knowledge with themes that feel real, friendship, perseverance, self-discovery, and often a dash of humor too.
You can find the full list of horse books I’ve read (and loved!) on my website. I truly believe the stories that stick with kids are the ones that feel genuine where the horses are real, the emotions are relatable, and the adventure pulls you in.
3. How do you see books helping children form a deeper bond with horses, even if they don’t ride or own one (yet)?
Books give every child the opportunity to connect with horses, no matter their circumstances. Through stories, kids learn how horses think, feel, and interact with the world. They imagine brushing, riding, and caring for a horse of their own. Programs like Read to a Horse, featured on the site, even encourage real-life interactions with therapy or reading horses, helping children build empathy, confidence, and communication skills—all inspired by the books they love.
4. What are some of the most popular types of horse books you see kids gravitating toward right now? (Fantasy? Show life? Barn adventures?)
That’s a great question, and one I’ve been thinking about a lot lately! At a recent event, the books that really captured readers’ attention were those with historical themes. Stories like M.J. Evans’ stand out for their ability to blend rich history with heartfelt fiction. She has a remarkable gift for creating emotional depth, and one of my personal favorites is The Stallion and His Peculiar Boy. It based on the rescue of Polish Arabian stallion, Witez II, during World War II and the touching bond he forms with a young autistic boy. It’s the kind of story that stays with you long after the last page.
At the same time, there’s growing excitement around equestrian-themed graphic novels. Kids love the visual storytelling and relatable barn-life humor. One standout in this space is Creaky Acres, a fresh new release that’s already earning fans. It’s clear readers are hungry for more horse stories in a format that feels current, creative, and fun!
5. How can parents, teachers, and horse-loving adults use both We Read Horse Books and The Pony Island to encourage more reading and learning this summer?
Both platforms are designed to be engaging, educational, and easy to use. We Read Horse Books offers a free summer reading program filled with themed reading adventures, printable book badges, author videos, and curated book lists by age and level. The Pony Island adds an interactive digital layer with horse trivia, challenges, and story-based activities. Parents, teachers, and camp leaders can download free resources, and find their perfect pony match. It’s a fun and flexible way to keep reading exciting all year long.