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."
I am carrying on reviewing books by Elsie Locke. Joe's Ruby is one of Elsie Locke's last works, published in 1995. It is only 60 pages long, but packed in this small book is a wonderful true story of a man and his pet bird.
Joe Erridge loves animals and has plenty of pets, but the opportunity arises for him to hatch and raise a rook. A rook is like a magpie, but it is all black. He successfully raises the bird from a wee chick and they become very close companions until the bird's death.
The pages are filled with stories of Joe caring for his friend and how they come to understand each other. Lots of wonderful stories and interesting things to learn about rooks.
The book is illustrated throughout and it's very easy to read. I would recommend it as a read-a-loud for the whole family. A very enjoyable, endearing story.