No matter how hard he tries, even with the help of his classroom aide, Ian Goobie can't do the things that the other children in his class can do.
Every day he dreads going to school. Then he finds a rock, a rock that fits perfectly in his pocket, a rock that touches all his senses and whisks him away into a whole other world. From then on, as long as he has a rock in his pocket, Ian Goobie can manage his daily challenges. That is, until he stuffs so many rocks in his pockets that his pants fall down right outside in the schoolyard, in front of all his classmates. This might be the biggest challenge Ian Goobie has had to face yet.
"Flook's work seems to radiate the energy and magic of the rocks...Highly recommended."
– CM Magazine
The energetic illustrations by Helen Flook are happy and appealing and she projects childhood imagination very successfully.
– Resource Links
"Sheree Fitch leaves the reader to ponder how rocks, like stories, have hidden worlds inside them that make one feel safe. Helen Flook's comical watercolor illustrations are filled with movement and expression that beautifully complement this lighthearted story. Peppered with metaphors and figurative language, this is a beautifully told story that will resonate with any child who has ever felt less than perfect. A simple extension activity might be to have each child bring in a rock and share why it is unique and special."
– School Library Connection