When You Find the Right Rock

A marvelous exploration of the special relationship children find with the natural world and the fascination and friendship they find in special rocks, from poet Mary Lyn Ray and artist Felicita Sala.

Somewhere, a rock is waiting for you. One just the right color for your windowsill, or just the right shape for drawing a face.

Maybe it is a rock from the heart of a mountain that will remind you of how big YOU are inside, too. Maybe it is a rock washed by the sea that knows all about the backs and forths and ups and downs of things. Maybe it is a small rock, just the right size to close your hand around and know that the rock is with you and it is just right.

Through vibrant illustration and evocative text, When You Find the Right Rock carries readers along on a journey of discovery, from the mountains to the sea, that’s all about learning the beauty of being in the moment, connecting with nature, and the thrill of finding a precious keepsake to call your own.

COOL ROCKS: Whether it’s a special pebble for a pocket or a colorful collection in a box, rocks offer a special kind of companionship and a portable and lasting connection with the natural world.

MINDFULNESS FOR KIDS: Our connections with nature reduce stress and increase happiness and resilience. This book is an ode to the presentness that we find in the natural world.

NATURE BOOK FOR ALL: A love of the natural world is easy to instill in kids, and it’s so rewarding--both intellectually and emotionally. Here is a wonderful reminder that when we see ourselves in nature, we get in touch with our own depth and texture and lastingness.

Perfect for:

• Parents, grandparents, and caregivers of children who love the natural world
• Teachers and librarians looking for a poetic picture book on rocks and nature
• Anyone who has found the secret joy of a special rock
• Readers of A Stone Sat Still, A Rock Is Lively, and Ricky, the Rock That Couldn’t Roll

Mary Lyn Ray has written many acclaimed books for children, including Stars, Pumpkins, Mud, The Thank You Book, and Go to Sleep, Little Farm. She lives in South Danbury, New Hampshire, on an old farm where there are big rocks and pocket rocks, medium-sized and big, big rocks--all just right for saying hello to.

Felicita Sala is a self-taught illustrator. She studied philosophy and languages in Australia but then decided she wanted to create pictures. Since moving to Italy, she has worked on a few stop-motion animation projects along with her husband, Gianluca, but her passion lies in making picture books. She gets inspired by nature, children, mid-century illustration, folk art, and architecture. She lives in Rome with Gianluca and their daughter, Nina.