Are you a fan of the Wild West and the legendary cowboys who tamed it? If so, you’ll love diving into these 20 best books about cowboys. From thrilling tales of gunfights and cattle drives to intimate portraits of the men behind the myth, each book on cowboys offers a unique perspective on this iconic American figure. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of Western fiction, or simply drawn to the allure of the cowboy lifestyle, there’s something for everyone on this list of cowboys books.
The Last Cowboys: A Pioneer Family in the New West
by John Branch
The Last Cowboys: A Pioneer Family in the New West by John Branch is a captivating book about cowboys that delves into the lives of the Wright family, a multigenerational clan of rodeo cowboys. Branch takes readers on a thrilling journey through the trials and triumphs of this modern-day cowboy family as they navigate the challenges of the contemporary West.
Readers will be drawn into the world of bronc riding, bullfighting, and the high-stakes world of professional rodeo as they follow the compelling stories of the Wrights. The book on cowboys offers a poignant exploration of the rugged and often unforgiving landscape of the American West, while also delving into the complexities of family dynamics and the pursuit of the cowboy way of life in the 21st century. With vivid storytelling and rich detail, The Last Cowboys is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the enduring spirit of the modern-day cowboy.
The Big Sky by A.B. Guthrie Jr. is a captivating book about cowboys that takes readers on an adventurous journey through the untamed American frontier. Set in the 1830s, the novel follows the exploits of Boone Caudill, a young frontiersman with a thirst for freedom and adventure. As he joins a fur-trapping expedition to the Rocky Mountains, Boone encounters a diverse cast of characters and faces the challenges of the wild, unpredictable landscape. Guthrie’s vivid storytelling and rich descriptions bring the rugged beauty of the frontier to life, immersing readers in a world of danger, discovery, and camaraderie. The Big Sky is a timeless classic that captures the spirit of the American West and the daring spirit of the cowboys who forged their own destinies on the open range.
Lonesome Dove, a beloved book on cowboys, is a captivating novel by Larry McMurtry that takes readers on an epic journey through the Old West. Set in the late 19th century, this book about cowboys follows the adventurous and often dangerous expedition of two retired Texas Rangers, Gus McCrae and Woodrow Call, as they drive a herd of cattle from Texas to Montana. The story is rich with vivid descriptions of the rugged landscape, complex characters, and the harsh realities of cowboy life. McMurtry’s masterful storytelling and authentic portrayal of the cowboy way of life make Lonesome Dove a must-read for anyone who loves a good cowboys book. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is a timeless classic that continues to capture the hearts of readers with its gripping narrative and unforgettable characters.
The Time It Never Rained by Elmer Kelton is a captivating book about the struggles of a Texas rancher during a devastating drought. This gripping novel follows the story of Charlie Flagg, a resilient and tenacious rancher who battles against nature and government bureaucracy to keep his land and livestock alive. Set in the harsh and unforgiving landscape of West Texas, this book paints a vivid and realistic picture of the challenges faced by ranchers during tough times. Kelton’s masterful storytelling and deep understanding of the cowboy way of life make this a must-read for anyone interested in the cowboy culture. With its rich characters and vivid descriptions, this book about cowboys is a powerful and moving tribute to the resilience and determination of those who make their living on the land.
The Shootist by Glendon Swarthout is a classic cowboys book that tells the story of J.B. Books, a legendary gunslinger who is dying of cancer. Set in the final days of the Wild West, the novel follows Books as he comes to terms with his impending death and seeks to settle his affairs. As he grapples with his mortality, Books must also confront the violent and lawless world he helped shape. The Shootist is a gripping and poignant book about cowboys that delves into themes of honor, legacy, and the passage of time. With its richly drawn characters and evocative depiction of the American frontier, The Shootist is a must-read for fans of Western literature and anyone interested in the mythos of the Old West.
The Virginian: A Horseman of the Plains by Owen Wister is a classic Western novel that has become a defining book on cowboys. Set in the 19th century, the story follows the adventures of a cowboy known simply as the Virginian as he navigates the rough and rugged terrain of the American frontier. The novel is filled with thrilling gunfights, intense cattle rustling, and the timeless struggle between law and order. The Virginian is not just a book about cowboys, but a tale of honor, love, and the harsh realities of life in the Wild West. With its vivid descriptions and captivating characters, this cowboys book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good Western story.
The Sisters Brothers by Patrick deWitt is a darkly humorous and thrilling book about cowboys. Set during the California Gold Rush, it follows the infamous Sisters Brothers, two hired gunslingers on a mission to kill a prospector. As they journey through the Wild West, encountering a colorful cast of characters and facing dangerous obstacles, the brothers must confront their own demons and question the violent path they have chosen. DeWitt’s masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions bring the Old West to life, immersing readers in a world of saloons, shootouts, and gritty adventure. This cowboys book is a unique and gripping tale that will appeal to fans of westerns, dark comedies, and literary fiction alike.
The Log of a Cowboy by Andy Adams is a classic book about cowboys traversing the wild and rugged terrain of the Old West. This gripping tale follows a group of trail drivers as they embark on a perilous journey herding cattle from Texas to Montana. Through vivid and detailed descriptions, Adams paints a vivid picture of the challenges and adventures faced by these rugged cowpunchers. From stampedes and river crossings to encounters with Native American tribes, this book offers a thrilling and authentic glimpse into the life of cowboys in the late 19th century. With its compelling storytelling and rich historical context, The Log of a Cowboy is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the Old West and the legendary figures who roamed its untamed landscapes.
True Grit by Charles Portis is a gripping book about cowboys, revenge, and determination. The story follows Mattie Ross, a determined young woman seeking justice for her father’s murder. With unwavering determination, Mattie enlists the help of a tough, one-eyed marshal named Rooster Cogburn, and a Texas Ranger named LaBoeuf, to track down the outlaw Tom Chaney. Set in the wild west, the novel is filled with thrilling gunfights, daring pursuits, and unexpected twists. Portis’s writing is both gritty and humorous, capturing the harsh realities of the cowboy era with a touch of wit. True Grit is a captivating cowboys book that explores themes of bravery, loyalty, and the quest for justice in the rugged American frontier.
The Ox-Bow Incident is a gripping book about cowboys, justice, and moral dilemmas. Set in the Old West, the story follows a group of cowboys who embark on a journey to bring law and order to their town. When they stumble upon a lynching and suspect the victim’s guilt, they face a tough decision: should they take the law into their own hands or wait for the authorities to arrive? The novel delves into themes of mob mentality, guilt, and the consequences of vigilante justice. With its intense plot and well-developed characters, The Ox-Bow Incident is a thought-provoking cowboys book that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The Good Old Boys by Elmer Kelton is a captivating book about cowboys that takes readers on a journey through the American West. Set in the 1900s, the story follows the adventures of Hewey Calloway, a rugged and independent cowboy who is determined to hold on to the traditional way of life in the face of modernization. As he navigates the challenges of changing times, readers are treated to a rich and authentic portrayal of cowboy culture, complete with vivid descriptions of the harsh yet beautiful landscape, and the bonds of friendship and loyalty that define the cowboy way of life. With its compelling characters and gripping storytelling, The Good Old Boys is a must-read for anyone who loves a good old-fashioned book on cowboys.
The Searchers by Alan Le May is a captivating book about cowboys that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the Wild West. Set in the aftermath of the Civil War, the story follows a rugged cowboy named Ethan Edwards as he embarks on a relentless quest to rescue his abducted niece from Comanche warriors. Filled with action, adventure, and the timeless theme of redemption, this book on cowboys is a gripping portrayal of the harsh realities of frontier life and the unbreakable bonds of family. Le May’s vivid prose and compelling characters make The Searchers a must-read for anyone who loves a classic cowboys book that explores the untamed spirit of the American West.
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford
by Ron Hansen
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford is a gripping book about cowboys that delves into the complex relationship between the infamous outlaw Jesse James and the young and idolizing Robert Ford. Set in the wild and lawless American frontier, the story unfolds with intense drama and psychological insight, as Ford becomes increasingly obsessed with James, leading to a tragic and fateful conclusion. Ron Hansen’s vivid and evocative prose brings the world of the cowboys book to life, capturing the rugged landscapes, the harsh realities of life on the frontier, and the larger-than-life personalities of these legendary figures. This compelling and haunting novel offers a fresh and thought-provoking perspective on one of the most enduring and enigmatic figures of the Wild West.
The Border Trilogy: All the Pretty Horses, The Crossing, Cities of the Plain
by Cormac McCarthy
The Border Trilogy is a captivating series of novels by Cormac McCarthy, consisting of All the Pretty Horses, The Crossing, and Cities of the Plain. Set in the American Southwest and Mexico, these books follow the lives of young men who embark on rugged journeys, facing the harsh realities of the borderlands. As a book about cowboys, the trilogy delves into themes of honor, love, and the struggle for survival in a wild and untamed landscape. McCarthy’s vivid prose and rich character development make these novels a compelling exploration of the cowboy experience. From the sweeping plains to the dusty streets of border towns, The Border Trilogy immerses readers in a world of adventure, danger, and the timeless allure of the American West.
The Homesman by Glendon Swarthout is a captivating book about cowboys that takes readers on a journey through the American frontier. Set in the 1850s, the story follows Mary Bee Cuddy, a strong-willed and independent woman, who undertakes the daunting task of transporting three mentally ill women across the dangerous and untamed wilderness. To aid her on this treacherous journey, she enlists the help of a claim jumper named George Briggs. Together, they face the challenges of the harsh landscape and the brutal realities of frontier life. As they travel, Mary and George form an unlikely bond, and the novel delves into themes of resilience, friendship, and the true meaning of home. With its vivid portrayal of the Old West and compelling characters, The Homesman is a must-read for anyone looking for a gripping book on cowboys.
The Far Side of the Dollar by Ross Macdonald is a gripping mystery novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey into the world of private investigator Lew Archer. Set in the rugged landscape of the American West, this book on cowboys delves into the dark secrets and hidden truths of a wealthy family with a troubled past. As Archer delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deception and betrayal that leads him to confront the far side of human nature. With its atmospheric setting and complex characters, this book about cowboys is a captivating read that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Ross Macdonald’s masterful storytelling and vivid depiction of the American West make The Far Side of the Dollar a must-read for fans of mystery and adventure.
The Horse Whisperer by Nicholas Evans is a captivating story about a young girl and her beloved horse, Pilgrim. When a tragic accident leaves both the girl and the horse severely injured, her determined mother seeks out the help of a rugged and enigmatic horse trainer. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the American West, this novel delves into the world of horse whisperers, the bonds between humans and animals, and the healing power of love and understanding. With its vivid descriptions and deeply emotional narrative, this book about cowboys is a timeless tale of redemption, forgiveness, and the extraordinary connection between humans and horses. Readers will be drawn into the world of ranchers, horse trainers, and the untamed beauty of the wild, making The Horse Whisperer a must-read for anyone who loves a good cowboys book.
The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance by Dorothy M. Johnson is a compelling book about cowboys that takes readers back to the wild west. This classic tale follows the story of a young lawyer who finds himself in the midst of a violent conflict with the notorious outlaw Liberty Valance. As the tension builds, the lawyer must confront his fears and embrace his inner courage in order to stand up to the lawless cowboy. This cowboys book is filled with action, drama, and a powerful exploration of justice and morality in the untamed frontier. Johnson’s vivid storytelling and rich character development make this a must-read for anyone interested in the thrilling world of the American West.
The Son by Philipp Meyer is a captivating and immersive novel that delves into the rich history of the American frontier. Set in Texas, this epic saga spans over several generations and follows the lives of the McCullough family, who are deeply intertwined with the development of the state. Through the perspectives of Eli McCullough, a resilient and complex patriarch, his son Peter, and his great-granddaughter Jeanne, the reader is taken on a journey through the harsh and unforgiving landscape of the West. This book on cowboys explores the themes of power, wealth, and the clash of cultures, offering a raw and unflinching portrayal of the cowboy way of life. With its vivid storytelling and meticulous research, The Son is a must-read for anyone interested in a compelling and profound cowboys book.
The Revenant by Michael Punke is a gripping tale of survival and revenge set in the untamed American frontier. This thrilling book follows the journey of Hugh Glass, a frontiersman and trapper, as he battles the harsh wilderness and seeks retribution against those who left him for dead. Set in the 1820s, this historical fiction novel gives readers a vivid and visceral portrayal of the rugged landscape and the dangers that awaited the brave souls who dared to explore it. The story is filled with intense action, raw emotion, and a deep exploration of the human spirit. For fans of adventure, the wild west, and stories of resilience, The Revenant is a must-read. This book about cowboys will transport you back in time and leave you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the 20 best books about Cowboys that every Western enthusiast should have in their collection. Whether you’re interested in historical accounts, classic Western fiction, or modern cowboy tales, there’s something for everyone on this list. From the rugged landscapes of the Wild West to the iconic characters that have captured our imaginations for generations, these books offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of cowboys and the American frontier.
Which Cowboys book is best?
The best book on Cowboys can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Cowboys?
For those looking to learn about Cowboys, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Cowboys are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Cowboys books of all time?
Choosing the best Cowboys books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
