Great Read Alouds: Exploring Rocks
It seems most children are drawn to picking up rocks on their outdoor adventures and some kids collect them. Rocks come in many colors, shapes and sizes, and are easy to find. I was a rock kid and still am! Rocks or rock characters show up in quite a few picture books. I've collected some wonderful titles for you to enjoy!
Old Rock is Not Boring by Deb Pilutti
You'd think sitting in the same spot on the forest floor would be boring. That's what Old Rock has been doing for years! Tall Pine, Spotted Beetle and Hummingbird are surprised when they find out how wrong they are. Fabulous tales of adventurous travel, exotic scenery, entertaining neighbors and more from Old Rock's life prove it has been anything but boring. This a charming tale!
“Pilutti puts a smile and wide eyes on the rock and places it among an increasingly fascinated animal audience in a set of simply drawn, usually idyllic cartoon scenes. ‘They are not bored,’ she concludes, nor will younger readers and listeners be once they realize that every rock they see has a similar story to tell.” —Booklist
What Can You Do With A Rock written by Pat Zietlow Miller & illustrated by Katie Kath
This is the perfect book for any rock lover! It's full of soft illustrations and an engaging exploration of things you can do with a rock. Skip, stack, study, share. Discover the magic of rocks with this book!
"The story’s opening draws readers right into the world of rock appreciation... The child’s adventures with rocks and making friends form a visual story that complements the conversational, conspiratorial text. By the end, the story widens its scope to sweet life lessons as it turns effortlessly toward friendship and the wisdom transferable from rock discovery to friend discovery. A delightful invitation." ― Kirkus Reviews
Charlotte and the Rock written by Stephen W. Martin & illustrated by Samantha Cotterill
Charlotte has long wished for a cuddly pet like a cat or dog. So she's disappointed when her birthday gift is a "pet" rock. See what happens when Charlotte grows to love her rock in this delightful tale!
"Kids will giggle over Charlotte’s efforts to treat her rock like a normal pet, and it’s refreshing to see a child making the best of a disappointing situation." —Booklist
"The sharp, declarative text and warm, funny illustrations make Charlotte and Dennis...an irresistible pair." —Horn Book
Ricky, the Rock Who Couldn't Roll written by Mr. Jay & illustrated by Erin Wozniak
All of Ricky's rock friends like to play and roll around the hill, but Ricky can't roll because he's flat on one side. Discover what is next for Ricky in this lyrical, imaginative picture book. It is a sweet one!
Determined not to leave their friend behind, the rocks set out to help Ricky roll - one way or another.
"When the last knot was tied, and the work was all done,
the only step left was for Rick to have fun.
They stood back and watched, feeling nervous and tense,
as Rick breathed in deep, with increasing suspense.
"He moved slowly at first, testing out his new mold,
and then, for the first time...Ricky the rock rolled!"
