All Aboard! Curly Crow's New Adventure Celebrates the Rail Runner's 20th Year!
Curly Crow Celebrates 20 Years of the Rail Runner
I’ve always believed stories begin in the places we love. For me, that place is New Mexico — where I was born and raised, and where I’ve been lucky enough to turn local landmarks into picture book adventures for kids.
You may already know Curly Crow, the curious little bird who’s flown through my books about the Balloon Festival and the ABQ Sunport. So when the team at Rio Metro asked:
“Has Curly Crow ever ridden the Rail Runner?”
I couldn't stop smiling. That question sparked a whole new story.
A Journey Through Community, Culture & Curiosity
The idea of a train ride through Central New Mexico — past mesas, pueblos, and vibrant city stops — felt like the perfect next adventure for Curly Crow. Right away, I began asking myself:
- How can we make this a story that celebrates the community?
- How can we teach kids about transportation, history, and geography — while still making it magical?
A Collaborative Ride
Rio Metro was an incredible partner. They shared stories, opened doors (literally and figuratively), and supported the creative process from start to finish. I didn’t want to just write about the train — I wanted to experience it.
So I did.
- I rode the Rail Runner from Belen to Santa Fe and back again.
- I chatted with crew members and learned everything from safety protocols to station schedules.
- I visited community events, soaked in the scenery, and took pages of notes.
Every detail — from the sound of the whistle to adobe homes seen through the windows — helped bring Curly Crow Rides the Rail Runner to life.
Why This Story Matters
This book celebrates 100 years of rail travel in New Mexico, and how the Rail Runner continues to connect communities in modern, meaningful ways. It’s about how trains shaped our state — and how they still serve us today.
Told in rhyming verse with vibrant illustrations, the story features real places kids will recognize (and maybe even ride through themselves!). It’s a joyful tribute to curiosity, connection, and discovery — rooted in the magic of New Mexico.
🚂 All Aboard!
Grab your copy of Curly Crow Rides the Rail Runner today and share the journey with the young readers in your life. Perfect for classrooms, gifts, and proud New Mexicans of all ages! Order your copy today...click here
What's Next
Curly Crow Rides the Rail Runner will launch in just in time for the Rail Runner’s 20th anniversary celebration!
It also pairs perfectly with the matching coloring & activity book, Curly Crow’s Rail Runner Adventure, packed with train-themed fun for curious kids.
I'll be offering:
- School visits
- Library readings
- Bookstore events
- And special appearances with Curly Crow herself!
🎉 Want to bring Curly Crow to your school or event?
Let’s chat about how we can create an unforgettable visit tailored just for your audience.
👉 Book a Free 30-Minute Planning Call
Whether you’re just curious or ready to schedule, this no-pressure call is the perfect way to get started! Or email me at support@curlycrow.com.
Final Whistle
A heartfelt thank-you to Rio Metro, the Rail Runner team, and all the educators and families who believe in the power of local storytelling.
This book isn’t just about a train.
It’s about where we come from, how we stay connected, and the wonder we pass on to the next generation.
Let’s keep riding the rails of imagination together.
— Nicholas Aragon
Author, Illustrator, and Proud New Mexican