A Pocket Full of Rocks

K-Gr 2–Despite their mother’s disapproval, their father’s concern for storage, and their sister’s indifference, a young child finds pure delight in a pocketful of rocks. Seeing nothing but possibilities, maybe the rocks are chairs for the fairy ring or even just a creative way to write their name on the sidewalk when there’s no chalk. As the seasons change, so does the collection: rocks become flower petals in spring, which turn to shells in summer, and acorns in fall. Though the family doesn’t see the uniqueness of these items, the child finds wonder in each one, reinforcing a central theme of imaginative play and the beauty of seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary. The text follows a simple, rhythmic pattern that young readers will easily follow, making for a thoughtful read-aloud for story time or classroom settings. The mixed media illustrations—primarily monoprint, oil, crayon, and collage—bring the collection to life with vibrant colors. The glowing monochromatic fairies and rich, tactile artwork evoke both the real and the imaginary, capturing the essence of childhood moments that feel just as significant as any grown-up reality. This heartfelt ode to childhood’s boundless imagination and the treasures it uncovers along the way will inspire conversation and creativity, in both large and small group settings.