“They didn’t just present a book; they invited our students into the journey of creating it. The way Zak shared his artistic process, and Casey talked about finding the heart of a story, helped our kids see themselves as writers, illustrators, and storytellers, too.”

“Telling Steamboat’s story provides a unique opportunity to connect communities—especially young learners—with Wyoming’s historical roots in an engaging and accessible way. Bringing engaging and historical events to life for young learners through literacy is especially meaningful and important to me... Sharing the book A Home for Steamboat with young readers is a delightful and enjoyable way to instill a love for reading.”

“A Home for Steamboat is more than a children’s book—it is an engaging entry point into Wyoming’s cultural identity. By sharing the story behind the iconic bucking horse and rider symbol, the program connects students and communities to the history, traditions, and values that define our state through storytelling, illustration, and live performance.”

“A Home for Steamboat, the Wyoming Humanities Great Reads from Great Places youth selection for 2025, draws inspiration from Steamboat: the iconic bucking horse that has come to symbolize Wyoming’s identity, resilience, and deep connection to place... It brings together visual art, folklore, and place-based history in a way that supports early literacy and strengthens cultural awareness... Shared stories help create a sense of belonging, and A Home for Steamboat offers opportunities for engagement in classrooms, libraries, and communities throughout the state.”