Rusty the Ringtail

Deep beneath Jerome, Arizona, a very small sheriff has an important job.

Rusty the Ringtail is the brave “Sheriff of the Underground,” patrolling the intricate, labyrinthine mining tunnels beneath the historic mountain town. His quiet, dutiful routine changes the night he meets Jimmy—a friendly ghost burro from the town’s copper-mining past. Together, the unlikely pair takes flight across the vast Arizona night sky, soaring over the iconic red rocks of Sedona and the awe-inspiring rim of the Grand Canyon. When a young traveler becomes lost in the desert darkness, Rusty and Jimmy must combine their courage, teamwork, and a touch of mining magic to guide them safely home.

This beautifully illustrated picture book transports young readers into the heart of Arizona’s most unique mountain town. By blending rich Southwest folklore with real historical elements, the story introduces young adventurers to the state’s official mammal—the ringtail—while honoring the industrial legacy of the Little Daisy and UVX mines. It is a tale that captures the vertical, gravity-defying magic of Cleopatra Hill, turning the history of a rugged mining outpost into a vibrant adventure that resonates with the curious spirit of childhood.

Rusty the Ringtail is a significant achievement as the very first children’s picture book authored from Jerome, about Jerome, and rooted in its authentic 1914 mining context. Created by Arizona native and local preservationist Thomas Lopez, the narrative is deeply personal. Having spent four years painstakingly restoring a historic miner’s home in Jerome, Lopez brings an unparalleled level of architectural and historical detail to the page. This book is a time capsule, ensuring the spirit of the mining era is preserved and passed down to the next generation. Whether for classroom shelves, bedtime stories, or as a gift for a desert adventurer, this book is an essential choice. Experience the real Jerome, explore the history behind the legends, and join Rusty on his mission to keep the heart of our mountain town beating.