Library Book: Rocks In His Head (Avenues)

Anyone who has ever felt a little out of step with the world will identify with this true story of a man who followed his heart and his passion. This nonfiction picture book is an excellent choice to share during homeschooling, in particular for children ages 6 to 8. It’s a fun way to learn to read and as a supplement for activity books for children.

Some people collect stamps. Other people collect coins. Carol Otis Hurst's father collected rocks. Nobody ever thought his obsession would amount to anything. They said, "You've got rocks in your head" and "There's no money in rocks." But year after year he kept on collecting, trading, displaying, and labeling his rocks. The Depression forced the family to sell their gas station and their house, but his interest in rocks never wavered. And in the end the science museum he had visited so often realized that a person with rocks in his head was just what was needed.

How can a simple hobby change someone's future?

• Following Your Passion: The true story of a man whose lifelong obsession with rocks was dismissed by everyone around him—until it led somewhere nobody expected.
• Geology Made Simple: An engaging introduction to rocks, minerals, and earth science wrapped in a story compelling enough to make the subject irresistible.
• The Great Depression: Learn how one family’s resilience and a father’s unwavering hobby helped them navigate one of the most challenging times in history.
• Sparking STEM Curiosity: A celebration of the kind of stubborn, obsessive curiosity that—given enough time—has a habit of turning into something remarkable.

Carol Otis Hurst is a storyteller, teacher, children's book critic, and columnist for Teaching K-8 Magazine. She is the author of the Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor Book Rocks in His Head.

James Stevenson is an op-ed contributor to the New York Times. His popular column, "Lost and Found New York," has appeared regularly in the newspaper since 2003. He was on the staff of The New Yorker for more than three decades; his work includes 2,000 cartoons and 80 covers, as well as reporting and fiction. He is also the author and illustrator of over 100 children's books. He lives in Connecticut.