Parents' Guide to

The Rusty, Trusty Tractor

By Susan Fitzgerald, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 4+

A charming tale of friendship and loyalty.

Book Joy Cowley Friendship 1999
The Rusty, Trusty Tractor Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Community Reviews

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age 2+

Based on 1 parent review

lorineo
lorineo Parent of 2-year-old
March 8, 2012
age 2+

Nostalgic and endearing story

Sweet tale about Grandpappy's loyalty to his "old friend", the tractor he's had for many years... Takes the reader through the plowing, planting and harvesting seasons with charming artwork. Great for tractor lovers! Some of the language is a bit hokey but kids may find it silly. It's fun when the old tractor has to rescue the pushy salesman.

This title has:

Educational value
Great messages
Great role models
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

A charming tale of friendship and loyalty taught by an elderly farmer who has faith in his old tractor. Illustrations of the quiet farm and the hard-working farmer have readers cheering for the farmer's "old friend."

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (1 ):
Kids say: Not yet rated

This subtle story, set on a farm, demonstrates that "real friends are there when you need them." Thoughtful, plain-speaking, humorous Grandpappy isn't interested in Mr. Hill's brand-new shiny tractor with air-conditioning: "Mine's got air-conditioning, too," said Grandpappy. "When the air gets too fresh, I put on another jacket." And while young Micah is a bit enamored with the shiny machines, he comes to trust Grandpappy's quiet loyalty and helps him set about working the fields.

This book even feels like an old friend, with its warm, inviting illustrations. A 5-year-old reader had a soft smile on his face as Grandpappy persevered through each feat, finally winning the coveted jelly doughnuts. And Joy Cowley's writing challenges readers; the same preschooler asked questions about the comparison of the plowed field to "brown waves."

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the appeal of shiny, new things. Why does Grandpappy have such faith in his old tractor? Have you gotten shiny, new toys that broke or got boring quickly?

Book Details

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