You can do it, rocket!,
Puedes lograrlo, Cohete!,
and… Chase it, Rocket!
How do you handle yourself when someone makes fun of your performance?
Rocket, the English Springer Spaniel, works through his “To Do List” of jobs on a daily basis. He takes pride in being a Springer Spaniel and loves to do his work correctly. He believes in himself and has an extreme amount of self-confidence.
Fast, tough, scrappy, with a “never give up” attitude — these are the qualities of his heritage. But there is one job that he truly loves that he doesn’t do perfectly. He tries and tries to master it — with no success. He just can’t seem to catch a squirrel! The squirrels
tease and make fun of him each time he misses!
Then, one fateful day, Rocket encounters a group of seven unsuspecting squirrels. He chases them, but misses again! The squirrels do their usual teasing behaviors, but this time, they take their taunting to the next level!
Embarrassed, angry, and feeling defeated, Rocket starts to think that maybe he’s not a very good Springer after all! Will he give up or will he try to prove the squirrels wrong?
Capturing the true personalities and behaviors of Rocket, the squirrels, and the other supporting characters, the comical and well-detailed illustrations are sure to bring a smile.
You Can Do It, Rocket, a story told from the dog’s perspective, will serve as a catalyst for some deep thought and discussion regarding perseverance, goal setting, work ethic, and bullying.
How do you handle yourself when you win? How do you handle yourself when you lose?
Rocket and Mike enter Quincy Park for their daily work and play time. Then, the story is interrupted with BREAKING NEWS!
It’s Chip Twigger from WNUT News with a special announcement from Zinger…the leader of the Quincy Park squirrels. Zinger is outraged at the way Rocket chases the squirrels in the park. Twigger was caught by Rocket in “You Can Do It, Rocket!” Now all the squirrels tease him and call him “Pokey.” He’s mad and vows to “settle the score!” Better watch out, Rocket!
Written from Rocket’s perspective, this story offers opportunities for some deep discussion about sportsmanship and accountability. Colorful and humorous illustrations by Mindy Indy help bring this story alive!
Praise for you can do it, rocket!
“You Can Do It, Rocket! is a charming children’s book that will engage kids through the spunky Rocket, earning their interest through his daily chores and pushing him to achieve his goal … the squirrel! The book highlights so many important skills that help kids succeed, including having a goal and a written plan to achieve the goal. It also deals with bullying and understanding that self-worth comes from within and not from others. And finally, the all-important task of being persistent and never giving up. The joy Rocket has from accomplishing his goal is heart-warming and will have kids cheering.”
“Michael Kesterke did a great job capturing what it means to have to set goals and more importantly, striving to achieve them. An engaging story with top-notch illustrations.”
“You Can Do It, Rocket! Is a fun window into a dog’s world. Any dog owner will identify with Rocket’s instinctive quest, and any child will be cheering for him to succeed.”
“Subtle lessons are casually woven into this playful tale to encourage us all, no matter our age!”
Praise for “Chase It, Rocket!”
“Great sequel! I love reading about Rocket’s adventures with his favorite person in the world and owner, Mike. So glad Rocket is on “squirrel patrol” and can’t wait to see what he can teach us next.”
— Wendy Swift, DVM…Rocket’s veterinarian.
“Great books take us on a journey with the character that helps reveal something in ourselves. Their lesson learned is also the reader’s. Rocket’s choices bring him to a decision that ultimately teaches the power of staying focused on what we want. Rocket will be a positive companion, perhaps even a best friend, in those family teachable moments when choice can make all the difference between success and second place.”
— David Lyon, Elementary School Principal.
“Mike Kesterke takes a playful story and fills it with purpose without taking away any of the fun! The lessons woven throughout the story’s plot (kindness, respect, revenge, acceptance, doing our best, and friendship - building—even between unlikely pairs), are easily absorbed while reading, especially with the colorful, adorable art work. But then, Kesterke takes it one important step further with his “Think About It” questions which are a perfect way to help children consider important life lessons. I wish every child’s book ended with such helpful prompts to further valuable conversations between the adult reader and the children who will cling to “Rocket Stories” like a warm, wise blanket.”
—Shannon Elhart, Teacher and Counselor. Author.