Reishus pens kids book

Over 40-years-ago, Whitehall resident Randy Reishus had an unforgettable Montana summer day where he was bitten by a turtle.

He is now sharing his experience with a younger generation in the recently published book "The Turtle Trial". The book, with illustrations by local artist Michael R. Harding, tells the story of Reishus, his brothers Mike and Johnny, and cousins Oliver, Dickie, and Tim. The book describes the boys going to a fishing hole where Randy is bitten. The boys then come together to put on a trial to decide the fate of the turtle.

Randy, who graduated from Townsend high school and attended college in Dillon, said he originally wrote the true story about 25 years ago and was encouraged to proceed with publishing after his wife Nancy Reinhaus had published her own book.

Randy first published it as an EBook, but after seeing the artwork of Harding, they began working together.

Reishus said the book is probably for six to 12-year-olds, but adults also really seem to enjoy it. He is pleased with the feedback on the book, and is currently working with Harding on two more projects.

Randy described the book as a humorous tale, but said it also has a great moral story about the justice system.

He said it was easy to write about his brothers and cousins because he knows their personalities very well.

The book is available for purchase locally at the Whitehall Ledger office, Cardwell Store, and Red Shed in Twin Bridges.

Reishus also served in the United State Air Force and Montana Air National Guard.