The True West

Historians estimate that 1 in 4 cowboys were actually black, latino, or Native American-or even women! Saddle up for a tour of the Wild West with some of history's most unsung heroes and discover how the Western story is really everyone's story.

A 2021 Notable Social Studies Trade Book from the Children's Book Council and National Council for the Social Studies

"Especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library American History collections for young readers."—Midwest Book Review

"A strong addition to social studies and literacy curricula."—Amina Chaudhri, Booklist

“Full of awesome pictures and rich with historic info every kid (and their parents) should learn.”—Red Tricycle, Best New Books of 2020, According to Our Kids

Did you know that the Lone Ranger was likely inspired by a black cowboy? Or that some of the most famous sharpshooters in the West were women? Or how a Native American rodeo star could ride even a buffalo? These are no tall tales! In fact, historians estimate that 1 in 4 cowboys were actually black, latino, or Native American-or even women! So saddle up for a tour of the Wild West with some of history's most unsung heroes and discover how the great Western story is really everyone's story.