10+ Best Horse Books for 12-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for a horse-loving tween? Look no further! Our curated selection of horse books for 12-year-olds is packed with tales that will gallop straight into the heart of any young reader. From thrilling adventures to heartwarming friendships, these stories capture the majestic spirit of horses and the challenges and triumphs of growing up. Keep reading to discover our top picks that are sure to stir the imagination and inspire a lifelong love of reading.

Fun Horse Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Black Beauty by Anna Sewell
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This novel is narrated by the horse Black Beauty, who experiences both cruelty and kindness from different owners throughout his life. The story promotes empathy and humane treatment towards animals.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches important values such as kindness, respect, and empathy through the eyes of a horse, making it not only enjoyable but also educational.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers who appreciate stories told from unique perspectives.

• The Black Stallion by Walter Farley
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Young Adult Fiction
  • Synopsis: After being shipwrecked with a wild Arabian stallion, young Alec Ramsay forms a bond with the horse. Together, they overcome great odds and eventually go on to race against the fastest horses in the world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling tale of friendship and adventure that will keep readers on the edge of their seats, encouraging a love for reading through its exciting narrative.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy action-packed stories and those interested in tales of friendship between humans and animals.

• Misty of Chincoteague by Marguerite Henry, illustrated by Wesley Dennis
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This book follows the story of two children, Paul and Maureen Beebe, who attempt to tame a wild pony named Misty on Chincoteague Island, Virginia.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the spirit of adventure and the joy of forming bonds with animals, which can be particularly captivating for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young horse enthusiasts and anyone who loves heartwarming animal stories.

• National Velvet by Enid Bagnold
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Sports
  • Synopsis: A 14-year-old girl named Velvet Brown wins a spirited horse in a village lottery and decides to train him for the Grand National steeplechase.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story of determination and courage, showcasing how perseverance can help achieve seemingly impossible dreams.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young athletes and any reader who loves a good underdog story.

• King of the Wind by Marguerite Henry, illustrated by Wesley Dennis
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: The story of the Godolphin Arabian, one of the founding sires of the modern Thoroughbred, told through the eyes of his devoted caretaker, Agba.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines historical facts with a touching story, making it both informative and emotionally engaging.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy historical tales and stories about deep connections between humans and animals.

Educational Horse Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Horse Encyclopedia by Elwyn Hartley Edwards
  • Genre(s): Reference, Educational
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive guide covers a wide range of topics about horses, including breeds, anatomy, and equestrian sports.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Horse breed identification, understanding of horse anatomy, knowledge of equestrian disciplines
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thorough and visually appealing reference that provides detailed information suitable for both beginners and those more familiar with horses.
  • Perfect for: Students interested in horses, young equestrians, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of these magnificent animals.

• Riding Lessons by Jane Smiley
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Sports
  • Synopsis: A young girl learns about horseback riding and the responsibilities that come with caring for a horse.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of horse care and riding basics, responsibility, empathy
  • Why we recommend this book: Smiley combines her expertise in horses with her storytelling skills to create a narrative that's both educational and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who dream of riding horses or those interested in learning about the basics of horse care.

• The Everything Book of Horses and Ponies by DK
  • Genre(s): Educational, Reference
  • Synopsis: A kid-friendly guide to understanding different aspects of horses and ponies, from breeds to care to famous horses in history.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: General knowledge about horses, historical knowledge, animal care skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an accessible and richly illustrated book that makes learning about horses fun and easy for kids.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are curious about horses, pony club members, and animal enthusiasts.

• Horse Heroes: True Stories of Amazing Horses by Kate Petty
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Biography
  • Synopsis: This book tells the tales of several real-life horses who performed extraordinary acts, showcasing their bravery and intelligence.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, historical knowledge, empathy
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the remarkable capabilities and heroic deeds of horses, inspiring respect and admiration for these animals.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in animal hero stories and those who enjoy non-fiction that feels as engaging as a novel.

• Summer Pony by Jean Slaughter Doty, illustrated by Ruth Sanderson
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: A young girl spends her summer taking care of a leased pony, learning about the hard work and dedication required to care for a horse.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Responsibility, animal care, personal growth
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a delightful and educational story that teaches valuable life lessons through the responsibilities of caring for a pony.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are new to horse care or those considering taking riding lessons.

Challenging Horse Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Every November, the Scorpio Races are held on the beaches of the fictional island of Thisby. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live, others die.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel incorporates a richly developed fantasy world with complex themes such as survival and the human-animal bond, which requires advanced comprehension skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling and beautifully written tale that combines myth with a touch of romance. The unique setting and the stakes involved make it a captivating read.
  • Perfect for: Fans of fantasy and adventure who are looking for a gripping and emotionally resonant story.

• War Horse by Michael Morpurgo
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, War
  • Synopsis: Set during World War I, this novel follows a horse named Joey who is sold to the cavalry and sent to the trenches of France. Joey's journey reflects the horrors of war and the deep bonds between humans and animals.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of war, loss, and hope through the eyes of a horse, requiring readers to engage with historically and emotionally challenging content.
  • Why we recommend this book: This poignant story provides historical insights and a new perspective on the impacts of war, making it both educational and deeply moving.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history, especially those who wish to explore the emotional dimensions of human-animal relationships during wartime.

• Fly-By-Night by K.M. Peyton
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Sports
  • Synopsis: Ruth Hollis has always wanted a pony and finally gets the chance to buy one. However, her pony, Fly-By-Night, is untrained and Ruth is a novice. Together, they embark on a journey to learn and grow.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book explores detailed aspects of horse care and equestrian training, which are complex and require attentive reading.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story of perseverance and the joys of horse riding, encouraging readers to pursue their passions despite obstacles.
  • Perfect for: Young equestrians or any reader who enjoys stories about personal growth and animal bonding.

• The Eighty-Dollar Champion: Snowman, The Horse That Inspired a Nation by Elizabeth Letts
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Sports, History
  • Synopsis: This true story recounts the journey of Snowman, a plow horse rescued from slaughter by Harry de Leyer, who went on to become one of the most beloved show jumping champions in America.
  • Why this book is challenging: It includes detailed equestrian terminology and historical context that requires a higher level of comprehension and interest in historical sports.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming underdog story that showcases resilience and the incredible bond between a man and his horse, providing both inspiration and historical education.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love true stories of triumph and those interested in American history and equestrian sports.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of horse books, you're in for a galloping good time. But how can you make the most out of your reading sessions, especially if you're around 12 years old? Here are some exercises designed to help you develop solid reading habits while enjoying these thrilling stories.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on how much you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and on track with your reading.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Enhances focus by associating one place with reading.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s quiet, comfortable, and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books with friends or family members who are also reading them.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding and enhances retention.
  • Tips: Try to express what feelings and thoughts the book provokes in you.

• Visualize the Story
  • What it is: Imagine the scenes in the book as if you were watching a movie.
  • How it helps: Makes the reading experience more vivid and enjoyable.
  • Tips: Pay attention to the descriptive parts to help build your mental images.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keeps track of progress.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Read the book out loud to yourself or to someone else.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and understanding of the text.
  • Tips: Change your tone and pitch to match different characters or emotions.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Look up any words you don’t understand.
  • How it helps: Expands vocabulary and improves comprehension.
  • Tips: Keep a dictionary handy or use an online version while reading.

So, saddle up and get ready to trot through your horse books with these handy exercises. Not only will they improve your reading skills, but they'll also make your adventure with horses more engaging and fun. Happy reading!