Cowboys of the Wild West

Reach for this book when your child starts showing an interest in cowboys, horses, or American history and is ready to move beyond the shiny, romanticized versions seen in movies. It is perfect for the middle-grade reader who values authenticity and wants to know what life was actually like for the diverse group of young men who worked the trail. Freedman uses archival photographs and detailed research to ground the legendary cowboy in reality, showing the gritty hard work and the multicultural roots of the profession. Through these pages, children learn about the intense responsibility and resilience required to survive the elements and manage cattle. The book explores the diversity of the West, highlighting that many cowboys were Black or Mexican, which provides a more inclusive and accurate historical perspective. It is an excellent choice for building a child's understanding of social studies and historical truth, while still capturing the spirit of adventure and independence that makes the era so fascinating.