Rocket says speak up!

K-Gr 3--Enthusiastic Rocket is back in a third book, this time about standing up for what she believes in. When her local library has to close because of a lack of funding, Rocket starts to speak up about how important libraries are. She takes inspiration from the actions of Rosa Parks to organize a peaceful protest to keep the library open. At first nothing seems to happen, but then letters and even a visit from the mayor show Rocket that her efforts paid off. Adeola's bright illustrations capture the energy and dynamism of Rocket and her passion. Rocket and her brother Jamal are the same age as they were in the two previous books (Rocket Says Look Up! and Rocket Says Clean Up!). While not all of the things we fight for will have such quick resolutions as they do for Rocket, the story will keep young readers reaching for the stars, or, in this case, fighting for a better world. VERDICT Sure to inspire young readers to speak up for the causes they believe in.--Heidi Dechief

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. (more information on speaking up, recommended reading) (Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.