"The Gentle Pen" The Ruckety Tuckety House

Why I Wrote The Ruckety Tuckety House

I wrote The Ruckety Tuckety House because it’s more than just a story—it’s a reflection of my own journey, both in life and in love. For five years, I poured my heart, hands, and hope into renovating an 1880s building with my husband. It creaked, it wobbled, it leaked—and yet we saw its beauty, its potential, and its spirit, just waiting to shine again.

Much like the old lady in the story, I hammered, painted, and patched every corner. And while the work was hard, what made it all worthwhile—the real treasure—was not the sale of the building itself, but who stood beside me through it all: my wonderful husband and my family. Their love, support, laughter, and late-night coffee runs were what truly built that house into a home.

The psychology behind the story is rooted in something I deeply believe: you are already a treasure. So many children (and adults, too) go through life feeling like they need to become something more to be valuable. But the Ruckety Tuckety House shows us that even things that are cracked, weathered, or worn still have magic in them, including us. The gold, the jewels, the treasure in the story? It's just a symbol for what we already carry inside: love, resilience, joy, and connection.

This story is for every child who’s ever felt a little messy or uncertain, and for every grown-up who’s ever tried to hold it all together with a bit of hope and a hammer. It’s a reminder that the greatest treasures in life are the people we share it with—and the light we already have inside.

Why Children Will Love The Ruckety Tuckety House

1. It’s Silly and Fun to Say!– “Ruckety Tuckety” is pure joy to repeat—kids will giggle every time the house “sings” its wobbly tune. The rhythmic language and playful sounds make it a delight to read aloud.

2. There’s a Secret Pirate Treasure!– Hidden treasure? A pirate ghost? A mysterious map? That’s the stuff childhood dreams are made of. The mix of mystery and adventure keeps kids excited to see what happens next.

3. Talking Mice in Helmets? Yes, Please!– The three grey mice aren’t just cute—they’re clever, helpful, and full of personality. Kids love tiny animal characters who do big things (especially with little helmets on!).

4. A Lovable, Spunky Old Lady– She’s brave, kind, a little messy, and full of heart—everything kids admire. Whether she’s hammering, painting, or laughing with the mice, she’s someone they’ll root for.

5. A House That’s Practically a Character– The Ruckety Tuckety House isn’t just a setting—it creaks, groans, and comes alive in the wind. Kids love stories where places feel magical and full of secrets.

6. A Happy Ending That Feels Just Right– With shiny new shutters, dancing mice, and the glow of love filling every corner, children finish the book feeling warm, safe, and joyful, like they’ve just come home.

7. Messages That Make Them Feel Good Inside– Kids will come away knowing that even old, wobbly things can be wonderful, that teamwork is powerful, and that they are a treasure, just as they are.

It’s the perfect blend of whimsy, wonder, and heart, with a sprinkle of pirate magic.

Get your copy of The Ruckety Tuckety House today on Amazon.

Gently read to your special ones.

Liv McLean