Rusty the Ringtail – Book Review
by Thomas Lopez
Rusty the Ringtail is a whimsical children’s adventure story set in the historic, mile-high town of Jerome, Arizona. I was so excited to get an advanced reader copy of this children’s book because the cover and the book description really drew me in. I will say: I was not at all disappointed!
If you want to know more about why I loved this book, read on for my spoiler-free review.
In this book, we are taken beneath the old mining town of Jerome from the very first pages, where Rusty, a small but tenacious ringtail, acts as the self-described “Sheriff of the Underground.” Young readers will immediately connect with this subject because it is exciting and unique. In addition to being endearing, Rusty is courageous, determined, and subtly heroic.
But when Rusty encounters Jimmy, a spectral burro connected to the area’s history of copper mine, the plot really takes off. The tour that follows takes you through some of Arizona’s most famous landscapes at night, from the huge, breathtaking rim of the Grand Canyon to the brilliant red rocks of Sedona. These scenes are wonder-filled, inventive, and cinematic… exactly what a great picture book ought to provide.
The art is beautiful and fun, so a young reader can enjoy reading along with a parent or caregiver. It’s a tale about bravery, camaraderie, and lending a hand to others even in the face of uncertainty or potential danger. This will open up great dialogue with you and your young reader about the choices they make and the importance of helping others when you can.
Rusty and Jimmy take on the roles of unlikely heroes when a stranded traveler emerges in the dark desert. And it serves as a great reminder that bravery doesn’t have to be loud to be strong.
This book, and its message, are so genuine, which help it stand out in the world of children’s books. This is not your typical desert experience; it has a strong historical foundation. A layer of educational value is added without ever slowing down the narrative by include references to the Little Daisy Mine and early 1900s mining life, as well as Arizona’s official state mammal, the ringtail. This book was obviously written with a sincere desire to preserve Jerome’s history and spirit.
And I love that the book is dedicated to the Jerome Historical Society!
We learn about the town of Jerome, what the tourists like to do when they visit, and we learn about Rusty and what kind of animal he is. We also learn all about the Little Daisy Mine.
The vivid and engaging pictures make that universe come to life in a way that will keep a child’s interest throughout. Each page feels like something to dwell on because of the setting’s richness, which includes the desert’s textures, the night sky’s brightness, and the underground tunnels.
This book is perfect for parents and teachers since it’s interesting enough for bedtime, significant enough for class discussion, and complex enough to pique students’ interest in geography, history, and wildlife. The back-matter information is a clever addition that allows children to continue learning after the story concludes.
In short: I loved it!
More than just a picture book, Rusty the Ringtail is a love letter to Arizona wrapped in an enchanted journey that children will want to return to time and time again. It stands out as both enjoyable and enlightening since it is thoughtful, masterfully created, and based upon actual history.
For readers ages 4–9, and honestly, anyone who appreciates stories with heart, this is an easy recommendation.