Behind the Pages: A Blended Approach to Illustration
The illustrations in Will and the Rusty Backhoe are created through a thoughtful blend of hand-drawn design, digital tools, and AI-assisted imagery. AI isn’t used to replace creativity—it’s used as a new artistic medium, much like watercolor or collage. Every page is designed, refined, and directed by Carrie, who combines her creative vision, drawing skills, and technical knowledge to bring the story to life. The result is a visual style that’s fresh, imaginative, and entirely original—powered by both heart and innovation.
About the Author
Carrie Stephenson
Carrie Stephenson is a lifelong educator with over 35 years of experience helping children learn, grow, and discover their unique strengths. She grew up exploring the outdoors and cherishing time with family—values that now shape the stories she tells. Her debut children’s book, Will and the Rusty Backhoe, combines timeless themes of perseverance, curiosity, and problem-solving, all wrapped in a warm, imaginative adventure.Through her creative imprint, Mud Puddle Press, Carrie blends hand-drawn illustrations with modern tools to create stories that are visually playful and emotionally meaningful. She believes in the power of storytelling to help kids develop grit, empathy, and confidence—and to remind them that every challenge has a solution when you dig deep and never give up.
Will and the Rusty Backhoe
Can a little boy and a rusty old backhoe make the perfect team?Will loves visiting Nana and Papa’s cabin, where adventure is always waiting just outside the door. But nothing excites him more than Benny, the old, forgotten backhoe sitting behind the shed. To everyone else, Benny is just a rusty machine. But to Will? He’s a friend who’s waiting to wake up and dig again.With determination, imagination, and a little problem-solving, Will tries everything to bring Benny back to life. When his first fixes don’t work, he refuses to give up—because sometimes, all it takes is one more try and a little belief.Perfect for young readers who love trucks, tractors, and construction adventures!
A heartwarming story of perseverance, friendship, and believing in yourself.
Features two lovable Saint Bernard dogs who add humor and fun to the adventure!
Set in a cozy mountain cabin, making it a great read for nature-loving families.If your child loves Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site, Little Blue Truck, or stories about machines that come to life, they’ll love Will and the Rusty Backhoe!A must-have for kids who love big machines and big dreams!
STEM-friendly story that encourages hands-on problem-solving, grit, and creative thinking—perfect for curious kids who love figuring out how things work.
Ideal for fans of construction vehicles, tractors, and talking machines—a heartwarming read-aloud for children who love stories like Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site and Little Blue Truck.
Uplifting themes of perseverance, outdoor play, and imagination—set in a cozy mountain cabin with lovable dogs and a magical twist of machine friendship.
Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“A beautifully written story that celebrates determination and creativity. My kids were cheering for Will the whole way through—and now they want to fix everything in our backyard!”
—Parent of a 5-year-old⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“This book is a gem! The illustrations are warm and engaging, and the message about not giving up is one every child (and adult!) should hear. Will and Benny are an unforgettable pair.”
—Elementary school librarian⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Perfect for tractor-loving kids with big imaginations. We’ve read it every night this week. The dogs, the cabin, the backhoe—my son is obsessed!”
—Amazon Reviewer
Book an Author Visit
Interactive storytimes and Q&A sessions that spark imagination, encourage problem-solving, and celebrate perseverance.
Customizable visits for classrooms, libraries, and homeschool groups, with both in-person and virtual options available.