Joe's Ruby
- Kirsten Edwards
- Jun 8, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 27
Author: Elsie Locke
From the back cover: "Joe's Ruby is a true story of a remarkable bird and a remarkable man, Joe Erridge, who told the author their experiences and lent her his extensive notes. It is sad that he died before this book could be published. Can a bird learn to understand human language? Read within and decide for yourself. The secret unfolded in this fascinating story of closely-observed bird behaviour, is in tender, patient parenting. Joe became the father to Ruby the rook when she hatched out from an egg in his hand. She grew up as one of the family in the Christchurch home Joe shared with his wife, and came to look on him as her mate and dearest friend. Here is a classic story, faithful to actual events, which extend the mind and imagination."
Continuing my journey through Elsie Locke’s works, I recently delved into Joe’s Ruby, one of her final publications, released in 1995. This compact 60-page gem tells the true, heartwarming story of Joe Erridge and his extraordinary bond with a pet rook; a sleek, all-black bird akin to a magpie. Despite its brevity, the book brims with warmth, insight, and the timeless appeal of Locke’s storytelling.
Joe, an animal lover with a menagerie of pets, seizes the chance to hatch and raise a rook chick, naming it Ruby. From its fragile beginnings, Ruby grows into Joe’s devoted companion, their friendship deepening through shared moments of care and understanding. Locke’s vivid prose captures their adventures, from playful interactions to poignant milestones, until Ruby’s eventual passing. Along the way, readers learn fascinating details about rooks, their intelligence, quirks, and behaviours, making the story both educational and enchanting.
Enhanced by charming black-and-white illustrations, the book’s accessible language and short chapters make it an ideal read-aloud for families. Its gentle narrative and universal themes of loyalty and connection resonate with readers young and old. Perfect for children aged 6–10, Joe’s Ruby is a delightful introduction to Locke’s ability to weave true stories into captivating tales.
Joe’s Ruby is a touching, easy-to-read story that celebrates the bond between humans and animals. Its blend of heartwarming anecdotes and natural history makes it a wonderful choice for family reading sessions or homeschooling. The illustrations add visual charm, while the story’s brevity ensures it holds young readers’ attention.
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