Michael Eastwood: From Horse Lover to Children’s Author
For Michael Eastwood, horses and ponies have always been more than just animals they’re a lifelong passion. His journey into writing children’s books began with a simple but powerful realization: while many children dream of having a pony, few truly understand the responsibility that comes with caring for one.
It all started when Michael rescued a pony named Winston. That experience opened his eyes to the need for education about horses, especially for young animal lovers. Wanting to make a difference, he founded Pony 4 Precious, a charity dedicated to teaching children about ponies and horses through scholarships, free books, and hands-on learning.
From there, the idea for his first children’s book was born. Inspired by his own experiences, he created Cowboy Mike and Winston, a heartwarming series that introduces young readers to the joys and challenges of caring for a pony. Through engaging storytelling and real-life lessons, Michael’s books entertain while also teaching kids the value of responsibility, compassion, and dedication.
Now, with multiple books in the Cowboy Mike and Winston series, Michael continues to share his love of horses with children everywhere, turning his passion into an educational adventure for the next generation of horse lovers. Michael donates 100% of all his book sales proceeds to a charity called Pony4Precious. Visit www.pony4precious.org for more infrmation on the charity.
Michael Eastwood’s Journey into Writing: From Business to Children’s Books
Michael Eastwood’s journey as a writer didn’t begin with children’s books it started in the business world. Having already published a business book with a traditional publisher, he was no stranger to the writing process. But it was a conversation with his publisher that set him on a new path one that blended his love for storytelling with his lifelong passion for horses.
The idea was simple yet powerful: a children’s book about Cowboy Mike and his pony, Winston. His publisher loved it, and so Michael set out to create a story that would introduce young readers to the reality of caring for a pony. Many children dream of having one, but few realize just how much responsibility it takes. That became the focus of his first book an honest and engaging look at the hard work, dedication, and love involved in looking after a pony.
Q: Can you tell us about your latest book? What inspired the story, and what do you hope readers will take away from it?
Michael Eastwood’s latest book is a heartfelt tribute to Prescott, Arizona a town he has come to love deeply. But beyond being a simple exploration of the area, the story carries a deeply personal inspiration.
When Michael learned that his beloved dog had cancer and only a limited time left, he made a decision: they would embark on adventures together, making the most of every moment. Those adventures took them all around Prescott, discovering its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and all the wonderful things the town has to offer. From scenic trails to charming local spots, each experience became a cherished memory.
Wanting to capture the magic of these journeys, Michael wove them into a Cowboy Mike and Winston story. The result is a book that not only highlights the beauty of Prescott but also teaches young readers about exploration, appreciation, and making the most of the time we have with those we love.
Through this book, Michael hopes to inspire families to go on their own adventures, discover the hidden gems in their own towns, and cherish every moment with their pets. More than just a guide to Prescott, the story is a reminder that the best adventures are the ones we take with those closest to our hearts.
Q: Which of your characters is your favorite, and why? Do you have any plans to revisit them in future books?
For Michael Eastwood, choosing a favorite character is easy it’s Cowboy Mike, because, well… Cowboy Mike is him.
Through the Cowboy Mike and Winston series, Michael brings his real-life passion for horses and ponies to young readers, using storytelling as a way to educate and inspire. Just like the real Michael, Cowboy Mike is dedicated to teaching children about the joys and responsibilities of caring for horses. His adventures with Winston not only entertain but also provide valuable lessons about animal care, hard work, and the bond between humans and animals.
And the journey isn’t over yet! With six books already in the series, Michael is gearing up for the release of book seven. This time, Cowboy Mike and Winston will be on a new adventure one focused on the importance of finding clean, fresh water. As always, the story will mix fun, adventure, and education, making it a meaningful read for kids and families alike.
As long as there are stories to tell and lessons to share, Cowboy Mike will continue to ride on, teaching young readers along the way. Stay tuned his next adventure is just around the corner! Learn more about the author at www.michaeldeastwood.com
Q: How do you balance imagination and creativity with the need to educate or convey important messages to children?
For Michael Eastwood, writing a children’s book is more than just crafting a fun story it’s about finding the perfect balance between imagination and education. Every Cowboy Mike and Winston book carries an important lesson, and Michael takes great care to ensure that message is both engaging and meaningful for young readers.
His process begins long before he puts pen to paper. First, he outlines the core message he wants to convey whether it’s about the responsibilities of caring for a pony, the importance of adventure, or, in his upcoming book, the need for clean, fresh water. From there, he envisions the illustrations, carefully considering how children will connect with the images and how they will help reinforce the story’s message.
It’s a thoughtful and meticulous approach, one that takes time. Michael often spends up to a year refining each book before it’s ready for publication. By taking this time, he ensures that every element the words, the pictures, and the lesson comes together in a way that resonates with young readers.
The result? Stories that spark curiosity, inspire learning, and make a lasting impact all while keeping the fun and adventure alive.
