In this young readers' edition, a rising New York Times reporter tells the compelling story of the Compton Cowboys, a group of African-American men and women who defy stereotypes and continue the proud, centuries-old tradition of black cowboys in the heart of one of America’s most notorious cities.

In Compton, California, ten black riders on horseback cut an unusual profile, their cowboy hats tilted against the hot Los Angeles sun. They are the Compton Cowboys, their small ranch one of the very last in a formerly semirural area of the city that has been home to African-American horse riders for decades. To most people, Compton is known only as the home of rap greats NWA and Kendrick Lamar, hyped in the media for its seemingly intractable gang violence. But in 1988 Mayisha Akbar founded The Compton Jr. Posse to provide local youth with a safe alternative to the streets, one that connected them with the rich legacy of black cowboys in American culture. From Mayisha’s youth organization came the Cowboys of today: black men and women from Compton for whom the ranch and the horses provide camaraderie, respite from violence, healing from trauma, and recovery from incarceration.

The Cowboys include Randy, Mayisha’s nephew, faced with the daunting task of remaking the Cowboys for a new generation; Anthony, former drug dealer and inmate, now a family man and mentor, Keiara, a single mother pursuing her dream of winning a national rodeo championship, and a tight clan of twentysomethings—Kenneth, Keenan, Charles, and Tre—for whom horses bring the freedom, protection, and status that often elude the young black men of Compton.

The Compton Cowboys is a story about trauma and transformation, race and identity, compassion, and ultimately, belonging. Walter Thompson-Hernández paints a unique and unexpected portrait of this city, pushing back against stereotypes to reveal an urban community in all its complexity, tragedy, and triumph.

In addition to reading about the Compton Cowboys, kids will get to see them and the horses that saved their lives. This book includes an 8-page insert of color photos by the author, Whiting Grant winner and New York Times reporter Walter Thompson-Hernández.

This unforgettable young readers’ edition explores a hidden history and a powerful modern story:

Legacy of Black Cowboys: Discover the rich, often untold, part of African-American history about horse riders who shaped the West and continue to ride today.
Inspiring Biographies for Kids: Meet the real-life Compton Cowboys—Randy, Anthony, Keiara, and more—as they navigate trauma, find healing, and build a community on their own terms.
A Story of Social Justice: A vital and unexpected portrait of Compton, California, that pushes back against stereotypes to reveal a triumphant, complex community finding its own way.
The Power of Horses: See how the powerful bond between riders and their horses provides a respite from violence and a path toward transformation, healing, and belonging.
Stunning Color Photos: An 8-page photo insert by the award-winning author and reporter brings the world of the cowboys and their incredible horses to vibrant life.

The Compton Cowboys: Young Readers’ Edition

The Compton Cowboys: Young Readers’ Edition