SYNOPSIS

A young boy’s favorite place in the world is a dilapidated dock where he fishes, swims and relaxes all day.

When a hurricane hits his small town and damages streets and houses, it also destroys the dock.

The boy helps his neighbors to repair their homes and clean up the town but he is the only one who cares about fixing the dock.

Or so he thinks – after a few days of him working alone and almost giving up, all neighbors show up to rebuild.

Together, they make a beautiful dock – everyone’s new favorite place.

PERFECT AGE 5 – 9

We love

• John Rocco’s illustrations are always beautiful – yet these are exceptional, especially the depiction of landscapes and stormy nature!
• A nice mix of an engrossing story with some educational components (the formation and categories of hurricanes, what parts a dock consists of).
• As with Rocco’s other books, the protagonist is a can-do, kind, inquisitive and nature-loving boy – such a great role model!

CONVERSATION STARTERS

• What do you notice people doing ahead of the hurricane? Why are they boarding up windows?
• Why do the neighbors say they can’t help the boy rebuild the dock?
• What would you have done in his place if you didn’t get help when you asked for it?
• How do you think the boy felt when everyone in town came to help out?
• Which one of the illustrations is your favorite? What materials do you think the artist used?