Charlotte and the Rock

Illustrated by Samantha Cotterill
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$18.99 US
Penguin Young Readers | Dial Books
24 per carton
On sale Mar 14, 2017 | 978-1-101-99389-7
Age 3-5 years
Reading Level: Lexile AD510L
Sales rights: World
An unexpected friendship forms between a girl and her pet rock in this charming story that’s perfect for fans of What Pet Should I Get?

Charlotte has always really wanted a pet, so when her parents present her with one for her birthday she expects a cat, dog, or maybe a bird. Instead, she receives a rock. Rocks can't cuddle, fetch, or even help her eat her vegetables, but that doesn’t stop Charlotte from loving her rock as if he were real. If only he could love her back...or can he?
"Amusing as well as subtly encouraging about the rewards for patience and working with what you've got." —Kirkus 

"Martin’s dry humor delivers giggles (“You said what ate your homework?” Charlotte’s teacher snaps), and so does the concluding reversal of fortune." —Publishers Weekly

"The sharp, declarative text and warm, funny illustrations make Charlotte and Dennis...an irresistible pair." —Horn Book

"Kids will giggle over Charlotte’s efforts to treat her rock like a normal pet, and it’s refreshingto see a child making the best of a disappointing situation."  Booklist

"Children will laugh at the surprise ending and may be inspired to try to hatch a pet rock of their own....A recommended purchase for any primary collection." —School Library Journal

About

An unexpected friendship forms between a girl and her pet rock in this charming story that’s perfect for fans of What Pet Should I Get?

Charlotte has always really wanted a pet, so when her parents present her with one for her birthday she expects a cat, dog, or maybe a bird. Instead, she receives a rock. Rocks can't cuddle, fetch, or even help her eat her vegetables, but that doesn’t stop Charlotte from loving her rock as if he were real. If only he could love her back...or can he?

Praise

"Amusing as well as subtly encouraging about the rewards for patience and working with what you've got." —Kirkus 

"Martin’s dry humor delivers giggles (“You said what ate your homework?” Charlotte’s teacher snaps), and so does the concluding reversal of fortune." —Publishers Weekly

"The sharp, declarative text and warm, funny illustrations make Charlotte and Dennis...an irresistible pair." —Horn Book

"Kids will giggle over Charlotte’s efforts to treat her rock like a normal pet, and it’s refreshingto see a child making the best of a disappointing situation."  Booklist

"Children will laugh at the surprise ending and may be inspired to try to hatch a pet rock of their own....A recommended purchase for any primary collection." —School Library Journal