Rocks in My Pockets

The rocks around their mountain farm serve all of the Woods family in many ways, both utilitarian and recreational, until the day two ladies from the city come to visit

Kindergarten-Grade 3-- The Woods family lives on a farm on the highest mountain in the area. Because of the severe wind, they need to carry rocks in their pockets so they won't be blown away. They also play games with the rocks, hold them while listening to stories, and heat them in winter to warm their beds. One day two women come from the city, see the beautifully gleaming rocks, and negotiate to buy some. This starts swarms of people coming to their home, with both good and bad intentions, and ultimately changes their entire way of life. Harshman and Collins give the Woods family the true folksy feeling that they deserve. Their story is simply told, yet moves along at a comfortable pace that will keep children both interested and involved. Goffe's pen-and-watercolor cartoons are pleasing and full of motion. The characters' expressions and stances add to the humor. The windblown family with lumpy, laden pockets look just as one would imagine them, as do the "high fancy ladies from the city." An enjoyable romp in which the good guys come out ahead. --Rachel Fox, Port Washington Public Library, NY
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

The Woods family lives high in Appalachia where crops are puny but where the local rocks--when put in people's pockets-- make good ballast in a wind, getting polished in the process. Some foolish, fancy city people provide an unexpected bonanza by purchasing the well-rubbed rocks--until honest Father Woods points out just how easy rocks are to find. Still, the ones that haven't been previously pocketed just aren't the same.... The authors, both experienced storytellers, recount their tall tale with dry understatement that makes it all the funnier, as do Goffe's lively, wickedly satirical illustrations. A subtle but beguiling message about value, packaged in an offbeat, entertaining tale. (Picture book. 4-10) -- Copyright ©1991, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.