When a little fox gets to ride in Papa's big rig, he discovers that being a truck driver means so much more than just the road.
Today is the most special day of Rilo's life. Today, he gets to go to work with Papa, riding in a real semi-truck, crossing state lines, and seeing the world from higher than he ever imagined.
From the early morning goodbye with Mama to the rumble of the big green Peterbilt coming to life, Rilo experiences everything: winding mountain roads where Papa's skill keeps them safe, a factory so massive it swallows the truck whole, truck stop diners at dawn, and sleeping under the stars in the cab. Along the way, Rilo learns what Papa really does when he's gone, and why it matters.
This story celebrates father-son bonding and quality time together. It honors blue-collar heroes and working-class families who rarely see themselves in children's literature. It captures authentic childhood experiences drawn from real memories. It's perfect for kids who love trucks, big rigs, and everything that moves. And it carries emotional depth that respects young readers' intelligence while touching the hearts of the adults reading aloud.
Inspired by the author's own childhood riding with his truck driver father, Rilo's Big Ride with Papa captures the wonder of seeing a parent's world for the first time. The pride, the responsibility, the adventure, and the deep bond that grows when you truly understand what someone you love does every day.
With soft watercolor illustrations and prose that balances excitement with quiet reflection, this is a story about work, family, and the journeys that change us. It's for every child who's ever wondered where their parent goes when they leave for work, and every parent who's ever wanted to share their world with their child.
Ideal for ages 3-7
