Mars Rocks: Utopia

In the cozy little town of Mars, imagination is never far away—and sometimes, it’s closer than anyone expects.

When siblings Ike and Penny spot the town’s old flying saucer, they hear a surprising story: long ago, it may have carried people to a magical land called Utopia. With curiosity leading the way and a little help from a very old storyteller, Ike and Penny set off on a gentle adventure to discover whether the legend is true.

What they find is a place filled with wonder, kindness, and joy—but also an important lesson about what makes a place truly special.

Mars Rocks: Utopia is a warm, whimsical picture book that celebrates imagination, sibling love, and the comfort of home. With a small‑town charm and soft magical elements, this story invites young readers to explore big ideas in a reassuring, age‑appropriate way.

Perfect for children ages 2–8, families who love imaginative adventures, and readers who believe that kindness is the greatest magic of all.

Janice Abernethy is a children's book author and former elementary educator who writes stories rooted in kindness, curiosity, and the magic of everyday life. Growing up in the small town of Mars, Pennsylvania, she draws inspiration from real places and familiar moments, blending gentle imagination with heartfelt storytelling.After a long career in education, Janice turned her passion for teaching and storytelling toward writing picture books that support social-emotional growth and joyful learning. Her stories often center on sibling relationships, creativity, and the comfort of home, offering young readers reassurance alongside wonder.Janice is the creator of the Mars Rocks picture book series and the ABC Animal Rhymes collection, which reflect her belief that learning should be engaging, accessible, and filled with delight. She currently lives in Pennsylvania, where she continues to write stories inspired by her family, her community, and the world as seen through a child's eyes.