I am a rock by Ashley Qilavaq-Savard, illustrated by Pelin Turgut

 This is a beautiful, unique celebration of nature that's just right for bedtime read-alouds

Pauloosie and his mom are having a peaceful pre-bedtime discussion and he asks what it would sound like if his pet rock, Miki Rock, could talk. This branches out into a gentle question and response story of the interaction of rocks with their environment, the passing seasons, and the natural beauty of the Arctic landscape.

The story's rhythms, both in the text and in the passing of seasons, are pitch-perfect for calming rituals. Miki Rock listens to the animals, hears the waves on the beach, watches the seasons pass, and finally goes home with Pauloosie, where they enjoy new experiences. Pauloosie drifts off to sleep, cuddled with Miki Rock, dreaming of the world all around home.

Colorful illustrations show the stark beauty of winter, lush greens of spring and summer, ebb and flow of the ocean, and movement of wildlife. There is a glossary in the back to assist readers in pronunciation of the Inuktitut words.

Verdict: Not only a delightful bedtime story, this would make a great seasonal read for storytime, especially if you have a very rowdy group that needs a calming story. Of course, you'll need to make your own pet rocks at the end, as well as talk about what those rocks have seen in your local habitat! Recommended.

ISBN: 9781772274752; Published April 2024 by Inhabit Media; Review copy provided by publisher; Donated to the library