ROCKET SAYS SPEAK UP!

After previous outings that saw Rocket learning about space and addressing ocean pollution, our hero speaks up for libraries.

Rocket and her family are saddened to learn that their local library will be closing. But Rocket, who recently read a book about Rosa Parks, is inspired to stage a peaceful protest. The whole community shows up wearing astronaut suits—a nod to Rocket Says Look Up! (2019). Though the protest gets press coverage, the library will still close. But just as Rocket starts to lose hope, letters from supporters start pouring in. The town’s mayor even pays her a visit and invites Rocket’s family to a celebration, where she informs everyone that not only is the library not closing, but that many people, inspired by the protest, sent money—enough to refurbish the building and buy new books. Rocket is an admirable protagonist whose can-do attitude will spur readers to action and whose passion for libraries is infectious as she spouts off facts: “DID YOU KNOW…there are libraries in Portugal with families of bats that eat book-damaging bugs?” Given the issues facing libraries today—from budget issues to censorship—a story that champions them is timely and important. Adeola’s cheery illustrations match the energetic text beat for beat. Rocket and her family present Black, while their community is a diverse one. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

An upbeat story that empowers young readers to fight for libraries.