Menu
Leilani is a desert rat who wonders if she’ll ever grow as big as her older brothers and sisters. She wants to be able to run as fast as they do and find as many seeds as they can. But what can Leilani do to change her size?
Runtie the Desert Rat is a touching story about the wonders of nature and the spirit of family. As she learns what it means to never give up, the lovable Leilani will enchant and delight the hearts of all children who encounter her. This warm folktale is a lovely look at what it’s like to feel different.
With beautiful illustrations and whimsically wonderful characters, Runtie the Desert Rat is a story parents can enjoy just as much as their children. The natural world comes alive as Leilani explores the vast landscape of the desert.
Whether you’re big or small, Leilani will help you remember how truly magical the world of nature can be.
Want to read a sample before you buy? Download to take a look!
“Great Story. I liked that there was a description on a couple of words, where a child might not know the meaning. Nicely done. Pictures are nicely done too. Will be giving this to my granddaughter.”
- Myra W
“A Heartfelt Story. My 7 year old grand daughter and I read this book together. She read a page, then I read a page. We talked about the pictures and story as we went along. At the end I asked her what she thought about the book. She liked it a lot! She said she felt bad for Runtie (Leilani), but was glad it ended happy when Leilani got her magical wish. She also liked how the “big words” were explained. She loved the pictures and how they were “painted.” This Grandma agrees completely!”
- Kathy
“Wonderful Folktale. An informative as well as entertaining folktale. Great as a read aloud book for young children, and a good story for older grade school children.”
- Sherry
“Runtie is a Keeper! Runtie the Desert Rat is a fun, educational read. My five-year-old granddaughter loved every minute of it. I liked the way the author explained vocabulary and facts about the desert eco system a young child probably wouldn’t know. And yet the book is written in such a way that an older child would be entertained and learn some interesting facts. I will be reading this to other grandchildren. It’s a winner!”
- Book Babe
“Magical Story with a Great Lesson. I enjoyed getting to know the sweet little desert rat, Leilani aka Runtie, through this beautifully illustrated children’s book. While the story itself is magical and fun for kids, I especially appreciated the educational tidbits carefully woven into the text. This will be a gift for my granddaughter in Texas, and she will learn something about the desert and its wildlife as she enjoys the story.”
- Colleen Eagle