Cybertruck reservation holder publishes book about the vehicle called ‘The Ugly Truckling’

A Tesla-inspired children's book certainly wasn't on our bingo card for the end of 2023, but this year is full of surprises.

That's exactly what Tesla superfan Diego Martinez has written - and it's somewhat hilariously called The Ugly Truckling: The Story of My Cybertruck.

After years of delays, Tesla delivered the first batch of its futuristic pickup to customers on December 1 - and just beforehand, on November 29, Martinez published his book.

So what's it about?

'When a dad brings home a Cybertruck, his daughter is less than impressed,' the book's description reads.

'With its unconventional and futuristic appearance, the truck seems like an ugly duckling in a world of familiar cars. But as the little girl begins to learn more about the Cybertruck's capabilities and its potential to help the world, she begins to see it in a whole new light.'

The storyline seems to reflect the hesitation some people have towards the Cybertruck. It's gone consistently viral since hitting the roads for it's unusual appearance, hefty price tag and even some safety concerns.

But Tesla fans - a group Martinez seems to be part of - are enamored by the unusual EV.

According to Tesla, the Cybertruck is "faster than a sports car" - it can go from zero to 60 miles per hour in 2.6 seconds - and has an "ultra-hard stainless steel exoskeleton" paired with "shatter-resistant Armor Glass" - which can apparently resist the impact of a baseball at 70 mph (although we really hope your truck won't get into that kind of situation).

Martinez told Teslarati the book is a story about "integrity".

He said: "It’s about being who you are and having the guts to act on what you observe. If everyone did that, the world would be a better place. We all just need to keep working towards the future. We have a bright, beautiful future here on Earth. It’s been a joy to get this book into people’s hands, both Cybertruck fans and haters."

The public school educator - who is based in Colorado - reserved the Cybertruck on the first day it was available, and brought together his two loves of education and electric vehicles in the book.

With illustrations from Tharushi Nanayakkara, it's described as a "must-read for kids of all ages", and can be purchased on Amazon for $12.99.

Elon Musk has apparently already been sent a copy of the book - but no word yet on whether he's read it to any of his 11 children.