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2025 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award Winner

2025 Randolph Caldecott Medal Honor Book

“An early morning wake-up call is an exciting adventure for the young narrator here, who goes with Father on a horseback ride through the usually busy city where they live. …It’s a wonderful example of a narrative about a family doing interesting things together in their community. The Afro-Panamanian community ties are evident and will provide opportunities for some readers to compare and contrast this experience to their own. …The pictures also reflect a deep love between the father and child as well as for the horses. This is a lovely depiction of a parent sharing their culture with their child in a way that will feel refreshingly new and happily familiar.”

School Library Journal, Starred Review

My Daddy Is a Cowboy

Written by Stephanie Seales
Illustrated by C.G. Esperanza
Published by Harry N. Abrams

In the early hours before dawn, a young girl and her father greet their horses and ride together through the waking city streets. As they trot along, Daddy tells cowboy stories filled with fun and community, friendship, discovery, and pride.

Seeing her city from a new vantage point and feeling seen in a new way, the child discovers that she too is a cowboy—strong and confident in who she is.

Thoughtfully and lyrically written by debut author Stephanie Seales, with vibrant illustrations from award-winning artist C. G. Esperanza, this beautiful picture book is a celebration of Black joy, outdoor play, and quality time spent between child and parent.

Look for the Spanish version, Mi Papá Es un Cowboy.

Primary ISBN: 9781419760815
Publication Date: June 2024
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 1st Generation

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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