Best Rodeos Books of 2026

The Irish Cowboy by D.W. Ulsterman is a heartwarming story of love, loss, and redemption. Hap Wilkes, the protagonist, has lived a loveless life to honor a vow he made, and now he is haunted by his past. Unexpected visits from two different people cause him to reevaluate his life, leading to a journey of hope and healing. The story is beautifully written, seamlessly moving from character to character and setting to setting. The Irish Cowboy is a timeless love story that will appeal to readers of all ages. It's a must-read for those who enjoy family life fiction books.

Horses Never Lie: The Heart of Passive Leadership by Mark Rashid is a revolutionary approach to horse training that emphasizes balance and sensitivity. Rashid challenges the conventional wisdom of "alpha leadership" and instead teaches readers to become "passive leaders" that cultivate responsive and dependable horse personalities. Rashid's experiences and insights offer a compassionate and appreciative perspective on the horse-human relationship. This book is a valuable addition to any horse lover's library, and the additional notes at the end of each chapter provide a deeper understanding of Rashid's methods and philosophy.

The Lost Cowboy by J. B. Zielke is a thrilling collection of true stories that takes you on an international cowboy journey across six continents. From Argentina to Mongolia, the book sheds light on the dangerous occupation of being a cowboy and the challenges ranchers face worldwide. The book showcases the similarities and differences among cowboys globally and will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the untamed land and the spirit of the wild. Overall, The Lost Cowboy is an excellent read that offers a unique insight into the world of cowboys and is a must-read for rodeo enthusiasts.

Hope . . . From the Heart of Horses by Kathy Pike is an exploration of the bond between humans and horses. Each chapter offers a lesson in communication, emotional honesty, and trust. Pike shares stories of individuals who have found healing and growth through their relationships with horses, including an Olympic equestrian and a participant in a corporate training session. The book highlights the remarkable connection between two very different species and how horses can teach us about presence, strength, and awareness. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in animal-human relationships and personal growth.

America's Wild Horses is a cultural history book that explores the beauty and grandeur of the wild horses in the American West. Written by Steven Price, an award-winning photographer, and lifelong horse lover, the book covers the prehistoric equines to the legal and scientific measures taken by horse-lovers today to preserve the wild horse's legacy. The book features stunning photographs by the author and firsthand interviews with renowned horse experts. It is a must-read for equine lovers and provides an unparalleled account of the American wild horse's profound impact on American culture.

...And On the Sixth Day God Created the Horse is a beautiful 365-day journey of horses throughout history. It contains 365 real-life stories and historical accounts that will take readers through an entire year, showcasing the horse's impact on human civilization. From being a war machine for knights and warriors to a companion to lonely soldiers, the book celebrates the horse in the most beautiful way possible. The author's research is impressive, and the hardcover is gorgeous, making it a perfect gift for horse lovers of all ages. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn more about the horse's contribution to the world.

The Ultimate Book of Horse Bits: What They Are, What They Do, and How They Work (2nd Edition) is a comprehensive guide for horsemen, riders, trainers, and owners in any equestrian discipline. The book provides practical information on a wide range of equine mouthware, their construction, and how and why each works. Emily Esterson, an active dressage and three-day event competitor, has written a user-friendly guide that addresses myriad horse-and-rider problems. The book is a must-have for anyone who wants to keep up with the latest developments in the world of horse bits.

Show Your Way to the Top is a concise and informative book that will change your beef show career forever. It provides step-by-step training on how to master your beef cattle showmanship skills and impress judges, making it the first and last book you will ever need. The book teaches you how to structure your practice sessions, focus on the three main concerns in the show ring, and show off the views of your steer using proven systems of stance, hand hold, and style. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to start out right without bad habits or improve their beef showmanship skills.

Aloha Rodeo by David Wolman and Julian Smith is a gripping true story of three Hawaiian cowboys who traveled to Wyoming in 1908 to participate in the world's greatest rodeo championship. Dismissed by the white cowboys, the native Hawaiians shocked the country by winning the championship and becoming American legends. The authors delve into the dual histories of ranching and cowboys in the Hawaiian Islands and the rise and fall of Cheyenne. This book is a must-read for U.S. State & Local History enthusiasts and anyone interested in the history of the American West.

The book "Caring for Horses with a Servant's Heart" is a daily devotional that combines horses and Jesus in a unique way. It contains 365 heartfelt stories and devotions that will encourage the horse professional and lover every day of the year. The devotional is perfect for anyone who wants to connect their love for horses with their faith. Each page includes a bible verse that relates directly to the story. The devotional will uplift the reader's spirit before heading out to the barn and give them peace after a long day of work. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to deepen their relationship with horses and God.