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Rusty and the Early Winter

A heartwarming story of courage, connection, and discovery on the Canadian Priaire. Pre-order your copy today and join Rusty's first big adventure.

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The Heart of the Story

Winter has come early to the prairie, and Rusty the Fox senses something is wrong!

While his friends play in the snow and turn the first snowfall into a party, Rusty is worried. The food stores are running low, winter is settling in fast, and large coyote tracks have appeared near the river.

But no one will listen.

Frustrated and feeling like he doesn’t belong, Rusty leaves home and soon finds himself caught in a fierce blizzard. Far from home and everyone he cares about, Rusty meets some unlikely new friends who know a thing or two about weathering a winter storm.

When Rusty finally turns toward home, he learns that his friends are in trouble. The food is disappearing, the coyote is getting closer, and winter may be just the beginning of their troubles.

Can Rusty and his friends find a way to protect their home before it’s too late?

Set on the Canadian prairie, this cozy chapter book brings together friendship, humour, heart, and adventure as one young fox discovers the difference we can make when everyone works together.

Who This Book Is For

Parents

A cozy chapter-book adventure that opens the door to conversations about courage, friendship, and trusting yourself.

Teachers

A thoughtful story for classrooms and reading groups, with themes of resilience, teamwork, empathy, and community.

Grandparents

 A heartwarming story to share together, with memorable characters, gentle humor, and meaningful lessons that can spark great conversations. 

Pre-order

Price

(TBA)

Recommended Age

7–9 (or those young at heart)

Format

Paperback early chapter book

Shipping

Books will ship after publication

Estimated Ship Date

Coming soon

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Pre-order Bonus

Rusty bookmark + special Rusty sticker

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Secure Your Copy Today

Meet Sharon-Rose
&
Rusty

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Sharon-Rose McNeil
Rusty the Prairie Fox

Sharon-Rose McNeil is a Métis author who lives in Sidney, British Columbia, with her husband, Brian McNeil. They have two adult children, Daniel and Rebekah Joly, and two wonderful grandchildren, Adrian and Briar-Rose, who proudly serve as her official Fun and Feedback Team.

Rusty is curious, thoughtful, and brave, even when he isn't completely sure of himself. He notices the things others sometimes  miss, cares deeply about his friends, and learns that courage often begins with trusting your instincts and taking the next step. 

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