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Nate Rocks #1
Nate Rocks the World
Ten-year-old Nathan Rockledge cannot catch a break. After all, life as a fourth-grader can be hazardous what with science projects to deal with and recess football games to avoid. Everyone, including his best friend Tommy, seems to have bad luck when hanging around Nathan. Throw in an older sister who is a royal pain, a dad who is stuck in the past, and a mom who keeps trying to poison him with her awful cooking, and poor Nathan’s life as a fourth grader appears to be completely doomed. Armed only with his sketchpad, his imagination, and his wits, Nathan Rockledge navigates the perils of the fourth grade in style, to emerge heroic, as Nate Rocks, proving that even a ten-year-old can accomplish great things. Follow the quirky and imaginative adventures of ten-year-old Nathan Rockledge as his cartoons come to life.
140 pages, Paperback
First published November 28, 2011
About the author
Karen Pokras Toz
17 books316 followersKaren Pokras is a writer, daisy lover, and occasional baker who will definitely begin playing the piano tomorrow. Always an avid reader, Karen found her passion for writing later in life and now runs all of her stories past the furry ears of her two feline editorial assistants before anyone else. A numbers geek at heart, she enjoys a good spreadsheet almost as much as she loves storytelling. Karen writes under both Karen Pokras and Karen Pokras Toz. A native of Connecticut, Karen is the proud mom to three brilliant children who still provide an endless stream of great book material. She lives with her family outside of Philadelphia.. For more information, please visit www.karentoz.com and www.karenpokras.com
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February 3, 2021I wrote this book with my three children in mind. I love to read and wanted them to feel the same way. What better way then to write a book I knew they would love? I hope all who are young at heart enjoy reading this book! I had so much fun writing it - I am now working on the sequel!! Happy Reading.
December 17, 2011
Acabei de ler “Nate Rocks the World” dia 15 de Dezembro de 2011 e dou-lhe 4 estrelas.
Esta é a história de Nathan Rockledge, um rapazinho de 10 anos que tem uma imaginação muito fértil. Para ele, tudo é pretexto para a criação de uma elaborada aventura mental, acompanhada de muitos rabiscos à mistura.
É uma narrativa um pouco diferente, na medida em que parece que não existe uma história específica, mas sim várias que irão culminar num ponto-chave. É-nos contada a vida de Nathan, não dia-a-dia, mas seguindo os episódios mais importantes que se sucedem no calendário até se chegar à desejada viagem de férias à Florida.
Não é um género literário que costumo ler com frequência, mas gostei. Agradaram-me particularmente as reflexões que o Nate faz acerca de certos episódios e que retratam a inocência infantil. A título de exemplo (e sendo um pouco spoiler), o Nathan diz que ainda não percebeu porque é que o pai continua a dar jóias à mãe no Natal, se ela chora sempre; já devia ter percebido que isso a deixa triste. Lol! Este género de piadas remete-me para “As Aventuras do Menino Nicolau” (“Le Petit Nicolas”), de René Goscinny e Jean-Jacques Sempé. Para quem não conhece, a personagem do Menino Nicolau nasceu nos anos 50, primeiro em jornal e só depois passou para livro. Esta é uma criança que nos conta a sua vida (disputas, conversas com os amigos, relação com o professor, etc) de acordo com o seu ponto de vista e numa linguagem muito própria. Neste aspecto, achei ambas as histórias se aproximavam, por isso quem gosta de uma, deve gostar da outra =)
Também me agradou o que aconteceu no fim: o Nate tornou-se no herói que sempre imaginou ser – foi como um sonho tornado realidade. Tenho apenas a apontar que acho que o final podia ter sido um pouco mais desenvolvido indo, por exemplo, até ao final das férias, só para completar o ciclo.
******************************************************************
I finished reading "Nate Rocks the World" on 15th December 2011, and I give it a four-star rating.
This is the story of Nathan Rockledge, a ten-year-old boy, who has a very fertile imagination. For him, everything is a pretext for an elaborate mental adventure, accompanied by many written doodles and scribbles.
This is a narrative a little different since it seems that there isn’t about a specific story, but there are several run parallel to each other and merge together at one key point. We chronologically follow Nathan's important milestones in his life up until he goes on a much-desired vacation to Florida.
This book is a genre I seldom read, but I liked it. I particularly liked Nate’s reflections about certain episodes, which illustrated the childhood innocence. For example (this is a little spoiler), Nathan says he doesn’t understand why his father keeps on giving jewelry to his mother at Christmas if she cries every time and that he should have realized by now that it makes her sad. Lol! This reminded me of "Le Petit Nicolas", by René Goscinny and Jean-Jacques Sempé. For those not familiar with it, Nicolas is character created in the 50s, appearing first in newspapers and then as a book. Nicolas is a child who tells his life story (discussions, conversations with friends, the relationship with his teacher, etc) according to his point of view and in a language of its own. I thought that both Nate’s and Nicolas’s stories were similar. So if you read and enjoyed “Le Petit Nicolas”, you’ll enjoy this book and vice versa.
What happened at the end pleased me as well: Nate became the hero he always wanted to be - it was like a dream come true for him. I just think that the end could have been a little more developed; for example, it could have been extended till the end of the holidays, just to complete the cycle.
Esta é a história de Nathan Rockledge, um rapazinho de 10 anos que tem uma imaginação muito fértil. Para ele, tudo é pretexto para a criação de uma elaborada aventura mental, acompanhada de muitos rabiscos à mistura.
É uma narrativa um pouco diferente, na medida em que parece que não existe uma história específica, mas sim várias que irão culminar num ponto-chave. É-nos contada a vida de Nathan, não dia-a-dia, mas seguindo os episódios mais importantes que se sucedem no calendário até se chegar à desejada viagem de férias à Florida.
Não é um género literário que costumo ler com frequência, mas gostei. Agradaram-me particularmente as reflexões que o Nate faz acerca de certos episódios e que retratam a inocência infantil. A título de exemplo (e sendo um pouco spoiler), o Nathan diz que ainda não percebeu porque é que o pai continua a dar jóias à mãe no Natal, se ela chora sempre; já devia ter percebido que isso a deixa triste. Lol! Este género de piadas remete-me para “As Aventuras do Menino Nicolau” (“Le Petit Nicolas”), de René Goscinny e Jean-Jacques Sempé. Para quem não conhece, a personagem do Menino Nicolau nasceu nos anos 50, primeiro em jornal e só depois passou para livro. Esta é uma criança que nos conta a sua vida (disputas, conversas com os amigos, relação com o professor, etc) de acordo com o seu ponto de vista e numa linguagem muito própria. Neste aspecto, achei ambas as histórias se aproximavam, por isso quem gosta de uma, deve gostar da outra =)
Também me agradou o que aconteceu no fim: o Nate tornou-se no herói que sempre imaginou ser – foi como um sonho tornado realidade. Tenho apenas a apontar que acho que o final podia ter sido um pouco mais desenvolvido indo, por exemplo, até ao final das férias, só para completar o ciclo.
******************************************************************
I finished reading "Nate Rocks the World" on 15th December 2011, and I give it a four-star rating.
This is the story of Nathan Rockledge, a ten-year-old boy, who has a very fertile imagination. For him, everything is a pretext for an elaborate mental adventure, accompanied by many written doodles and scribbles.
This is a narrative a little different since it seems that there isn’t about a specific story, but there are several run parallel to each other and merge together at one key point. We chronologically follow Nathan's important milestones in his life up until he goes on a much-desired vacation to Florida.
This book is a genre I seldom read, but I liked it. I particularly liked Nate’s reflections about certain episodes, which illustrated the childhood innocence. For example (this is a little spoiler), Nathan says he doesn’t understand why his father keeps on giving jewelry to his mother at Christmas if she cries every time and that he should have realized by now that it makes her sad. Lol! This reminded me of "Le Petit Nicolas", by René Goscinny and Jean-Jacques Sempé. For those not familiar with it, Nicolas is character created in the 50s, appearing first in newspapers and then as a book. Nicolas is a child who tells his life story (discussions, conversations with friends, the relationship with his teacher, etc) according to his point of view and in a language of its own. I thought that both Nate’s and Nicolas’s stories were similar. So if you read and enjoyed “Le Petit Nicolas”, you’ll enjoy this book and vice versa.
What happened at the end pleased me as well: Nate became the hero he always wanted to be - it was like a dream come true for him. I just think that the end could have been a little more developed; for example, it could have been extended till the end of the holidays, just to complete the cycle.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2016
Nate is a ten year old boy with an over active imagination. Everyday mundane events are opportunities in disguise as adventures starring Nate who of course, rocks them all.
Nate is a character who seeks adventure by indulging in day dreams which reminded me a little of a young Walter Mitty. He has a quirky family that add to the fun. It is a great choice for middle graders and is certainly not limited to boys as my daughter completely enjoyed this book as well.
Nate is a character who seeks adventure by indulging in day dreams which reminded me a little of a young Walter Mitty. He has a quirky family that add to the fun. It is a great choice for middle graders and is certainly not limited to boys as my daughter completely enjoyed this book as well.
August 14, 2016
This a very cool and great story! It starts out like a boy and more into a man! It was an fantastic story!
September 4, 2017
Why I Think Boys May Enjoy This
When I first read this book description, I actually thought it was a fantasy book (it made me think of ChalkZone, the old Nickelodeon cartoon). In truth, this is actually a pure middle grade literary fiction book and is all the better for it. When I finished reading, my very first thought was: "Nate is Ramona Quimby for boys and the modern generation!" And if you've read my #BooksForBoys reviews, you know my very first one was a Beverly Cleary book. Toz does a fantastic job of really diving into the head of her main character and focusing on the things that drive a 10 year old boy's day-to-day motivations (well-meaning but annoying parents, a pain in the butt big sister, movies and hanging out with his best friend, school).
However, Toz takes this to another level with Nate's insanely awesome imagination in the form of his drawings and daydreaming. She really captures how easy it is for a single thing (for example, a classmate getting a 'spy' pen from a trip to Washington, DC) can trigger a far-fetched adventure in the mind of an imaginative pre-teen boy. Even if it does mean getting in trouble for doodling all over a spelling test.
For the adults in the audience, the story plays out much like The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (most recently adapted into a Ben Stiller movie in 2013), where we are thrown into Nate's daydreams seamlessly from his everyday world. This is why it's easy to feel like this could just as well be a fantasy story where Nate's drawings literally DO come to life (because from his perspective [and ours due to Toz's smart use of 1st Person Present POV], they DO!). At the end of the day, Nate is a very wonderful character that any young boy could easily relate to and I can't wait to read the other three books in the series.
Content/Appropriateness
This is a perfectly done middle grade book that works for all ages. A strong reader as young as 8 could read it solo but it really does hit that late elementary school/early middle school target absolutely perfectly. There is some talk of middle grade appropriate boy/girl talk (Nate think they're yucky, his sister is in love with a pop star) but nothing else other than healthy, appropriate family relationships and school interactions. Zero concern about violence, language, or sexuality at all.
Rating
5/5 Giant Cartoon Mallets from Toonopolis, The Blog's Books for Boys Review on 9/4/17: http://www.toonopolis.com/2017/09/04/...
When I first read this book description, I actually thought it was a fantasy book (it made me think of ChalkZone, the old Nickelodeon cartoon). In truth, this is actually a pure middle grade literary fiction book and is all the better for it. When I finished reading, my very first thought was: "Nate is Ramona Quimby for boys and the modern generation!" And if you've read my #BooksForBoys reviews, you know my very first one was a Beverly Cleary book. Toz does a fantastic job of really diving into the head of her main character and focusing on the things that drive a 10 year old boy's day-to-day motivations (well-meaning but annoying parents, a pain in the butt big sister, movies and hanging out with his best friend, school).
However, Toz takes this to another level with Nate's insanely awesome imagination in the form of his drawings and daydreaming. She really captures how easy it is for a single thing (for example, a classmate getting a 'spy' pen from a trip to Washington, DC) can trigger a far-fetched adventure in the mind of an imaginative pre-teen boy. Even if it does mean getting in trouble for doodling all over a spelling test.
For the adults in the audience, the story plays out much like The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (most recently adapted into a Ben Stiller movie in 2013), where we are thrown into Nate's daydreams seamlessly from his everyday world. This is why it's easy to feel like this could just as well be a fantasy story where Nate's drawings literally DO come to life (because from his perspective [and ours due to Toz's smart use of 1st Person Present POV], they DO!). At the end of the day, Nate is a very wonderful character that any young boy could easily relate to and I can't wait to read the other three books in the series.
Content/Appropriateness
This is a perfectly done middle grade book that works for all ages. A strong reader as young as 8 could read it solo but it really does hit that late elementary school/early middle school target absolutely perfectly. There is some talk of middle grade appropriate boy/girl talk (Nate think they're yucky, his sister is in love with a pop star) but nothing else other than healthy, appropriate family relationships and school interactions. Zero concern about violence, language, or sexuality at all.
Rating
5/5 Giant Cartoon Mallets from Toonopolis, The Blog's Books for Boys Review on 9/4/17: http://www.toonopolis.com/2017/09/04/...
December 28, 2011
Science projects can be a real challenge or a real drag. Poor Nathan got stuck working with Lisa Crane on his latest project. Not only that, Lisa loves to report his actions to her mother who repeats everyone to his mom too. Is there no privacy or loyalty among kids anymore? So, when Lisa comes over to start working on their project Nathan does what any potential super hero would do, enter his own imaginative world, solve world problems, even help the Phillies win the World Series and let the world know that he is not just a hazard waiting to happen when near him but a really great kid with tons of artistic talent.
The story begins with Nathan daydreaming and drawing pictures of himself helping the Phillies win the World Series when his mother brings him out of his revere. Going to school poor Nathan hopes for indoor recess where he can just doodle on his pad, create comic pictures and enjoy his time away from the classroom. But, unfortunately he gets stuck with football that day and he is not very good. Coming home he finds out his mother already knows about his science project, while eating her horrific dinner fit for no one and hoping she won’t pack if for his lunch the following day, poor Nathan has not choice but to escape back into his own special world where success comes easily and appreciation widespread. If only everyone could see him as he really is. Added to the story is a story who enjoys riding him, a father transfixed on his work and constantly recounts stories from his past reliving each event point by point, sending Nate off to dream world in order cope with reality. Poor Nathan gets stuck working on his science project on Saturday when he would rather spend time at the movies with his best friend Tommy. Captain Asteroid is the movie they want to see and he is totally disappointed that he is stuck at home working on his science project with Lisa who has already decided they would create a Prism much more. While taking notes about the subject something happens that takes Nathan into his own special plane of reality and he hears the voice of his favorite super hero Captain Asteroid who needs him to help with a serious crisis. The world is devoid of color and unless Nathan can figure out how bring it back there was no hope for the world. What would learning about prisms have to do with saving the world from being colorless, find out how Nathan does it and why Captain Asteroid thinks Nate Rocks for you!
When Nathan is called to the front of his classroom to present his project and poster it seems Lisa has blindsided him by recreating another poster in her own fashion claiming his was ruined. Voicing his opinion to her went on deaf ears. Going home he decided on his Halloween costume when a unique idea to become a cowboy came from his sister as a strange source and then Nathan reverts back into his dream world as he once again takes on the persona of whatever character or figure that comes into play. So, Nate thinks he is now in a western town and has to save a damsel in distress plus prevent the bandits from taking over town. Can this 10-year-old Nate do it?
Then his sister does something to embarrass him on Halloween and it is time to pay her back for all she has done. Why not get even on her birthday. Going to get his father’s rakes back from a neighbor Nate turns into a Rock Star guitar and all. Is there anything this ten-year old can’t do? Desmond Harper the real performer had a problem someone made his skin and hair look blue just because he criticized the way he created the lighting for his show. Back to reality he finds that he has drawn a picture someone playing the guitar and trying to explain it Tommy would wait. But sometimes payback is not as satisfying as you think even though Abby gets sort of what she deserves from Nate but their parents teach them both a lesson. Wait until you read what they have to wear and do. Finding himself in the hospital to give out gifts how does he turn into Santa at the North Pole? The best was yet to come as his parents surprise him and his sister with a special family Christmas gift. His next adventure will definitely surprise you as he saves a dog from a burning fire and gets stuck making Valentine’s Cards. But, to appreciate what his sister does you have to read it for yourself.
One plane ride to Florida brings about an adventure that he won’t ever forget. Did Nate really help the Captain of the plane move a meteor out of the way so they could continue their flight? What happened to everyone in the cabin? What happens on the vacation you won’t believe? Poor Nathan can’t seem to get a break at all. Tommy has an accident but what happens at the end will definitely let the reader know that ten –year old Nate really does Rock! Just how you have to find out for yourself when you read this outstanding book by author Karen Pokras Toz which brings to light so many important issues of friendship, loyalty, family values, understanding, and just plain fun. Some situations are real and not part of his imagination. What happens when someone really does need his help will he rise to the occasion? What will happen to Nathan next and let’s hope the author brings him back for some more adventures and more drawings that take him into other worlds kids would otherwise never experience.
Author Karen Pokras Toz has a definite five star winner right here. Nate more than ROCKS! Great book for kids of all ages and for parents too. Characters that are true to life and a story that will definitely make you smile, laugh and endear you to one smart and talented young man named NATE!
Fran Lewis: reviewer
The story begins with Nathan daydreaming and drawing pictures of himself helping the Phillies win the World Series when his mother brings him out of his revere. Going to school poor Nathan hopes for indoor recess where he can just doodle on his pad, create comic pictures and enjoy his time away from the classroom. But, unfortunately he gets stuck with football that day and he is not very good. Coming home he finds out his mother already knows about his science project, while eating her horrific dinner fit for no one and hoping she won’t pack if for his lunch the following day, poor Nathan has not choice but to escape back into his own special world where success comes easily and appreciation widespread. If only everyone could see him as he really is. Added to the story is a story who enjoys riding him, a father transfixed on his work and constantly recounts stories from his past reliving each event point by point, sending Nate off to dream world in order cope with reality. Poor Nathan gets stuck working on his science project on Saturday when he would rather spend time at the movies with his best friend Tommy. Captain Asteroid is the movie they want to see and he is totally disappointed that he is stuck at home working on his science project with Lisa who has already decided they would create a Prism much more. While taking notes about the subject something happens that takes Nathan into his own special plane of reality and he hears the voice of his favorite super hero Captain Asteroid who needs him to help with a serious crisis. The world is devoid of color and unless Nathan can figure out how bring it back there was no hope for the world. What would learning about prisms have to do with saving the world from being colorless, find out how Nathan does it and why Captain Asteroid thinks Nate Rocks for you!
When Nathan is called to the front of his classroom to present his project and poster it seems Lisa has blindsided him by recreating another poster in her own fashion claiming his was ruined. Voicing his opinion to her went on deaf ears. Going home he decided on his Halloween costume when a unique idea to become a cowboy came from his sister as a strange source and then Nathan reverts back into his dream world as he once again takes on the persona of whatever character or figure that comes into play. So, Nate thinks he is now in a western town and has to save a damsel in distress plus prevent the bandits from taking over town. Can this 10-year-old Nate do it?
Then his sister does something to embarrass him on Halloween and it is time to pay her back for all she has done. Why not get even on her birthday. Going to get his father’s rakes back from a neighbor Nate turns into a Rock Star guitar and all. Is there anything this ten-year old can’t do? Desmond Harper the real performer had a problem someone made his skin and hair look blue just because he criticized the way he created the lighting for his show. Back to reality he finds that he has drawn a picture someone playing the guitar and trying to explain it Tommy would wait. But sometimes payback is not as satisfying as you think even though Abby gets sort of what she deserves from Nate but their parents teach them both a lesson. Wait until you read what they have to wear and do. Finding himself in the hospital to give out gifts how does he turn into Santa at the North Pole? The best was yet to come as his parents surprise him and his sister with a special family Christmas gift. His next adventure will definitely surprise you as he saves a dog from a burning fire and gets stuck making Valentine’s Cards. But, to appreciate what his sister does you have to read it for yourself.
One plane ride to Florida brings about an adventure that he won’t ever forget. Did Nate really help the Captain of the plane move a meteor out of the way so they could continue their flight? What happened to everyone in the cabin? What happens on the vacation you won’t believe? Poor Nathan can’t seem to get a break at all. Tommy has an accident but what happens at the end will definitely let the reader know that ten –year old Nate really does Rock! Just how you have to find out for yourself when you read this outstanding book by author Karen Pokras Toz which brings to light so many important issues of friendship, loyalty, family values, understanding, and just plain fun. Some situations are real and not part of his imagination. What happens when someone really does need his help will he rise to the occasion? What will happen to Nathan next and let’s hope the author brings him back for some more adventures and more drawings that take him into other worlds kids would otherwise never experience.
Author Karen Pokras Toz has a definite five star winner right here. Nate more than ROCKS! Great book for kids of all ages and for parents too. Characters that are true to life and a story that will definitely make you smile, laugh and endear you to one smart and talented young man named NATE!
Fran Lewis: reviewer
October 17, 2017
this is awesome
January 8, 2012
Nathan Rockledge is a 10 year old fourth grader who lives with his parents and older sister Abby in an average town in the United States. In this book Nate encounters the typical experiences of a fourth grader including having to put up with a very annoying older sister who treats him like he is the worst thing that could happen to her. Some of Nate's school experiences include having to work on a school project with a girl who he can't stand, daydreaming in class and getting caught at it, and having a mother who means well but by doing some of the things that she does, makes his life even more embarrassing than ever. Nate would prefer to just draw, read, see the latest Captain Asteroid movie, and hang out with his friends Tommy and Sam. Unfortunately, life isn't as simple as that.
There were so many events in this book that I was able to connect to that I feel like the author studied my life before writing the book. Like Nate, I also had no athletic ability when I was in school and therefore was always the last one chosen for pick up games at recess, if I even got picked at all. Nate's mom doesn't see the sense in spending money to purchase something that she can easily make like Halloween costumes and Valentine's Day cards. Although my mom wasn't that bad, I could certainly connect with how Nate felt whenever he had to take them out in public. The humiliation is almost more than one can bear. I was also able to connect with Nate's feelings towards his sister Abby who treats him the same way his classmates do. Although my older sister was not that bad, we weren't the best of friends either as we went through those growing years.. So, what's a guy to do? Daydream, that's what. In his daydreams Nathan Rockledge becomes Nate Rock, Superhero, always there to save the day.
This book was such an enjoyable read because the author has made all of the characters so realistic and believable. As I read I found myself really liking Nate and Tommy and disliking Abby. I also liked Nate's Dad as he seems like a pretty good guy who, although a bit clueless (I think he has forgotten what it was like when he was Nate's age), really seems to understand how hard it is for a boy growing up. His mom, although likable, strikes me as a typical girl who either didn't have troubles as she grew up or doesn't care and thinks that kids should just "get over it." Either way, I'm sure glad that she wasn't my Mom. I highly recommend this book to boys in the 9-12 years age range. I'm not sure if girls would enjoy it or not but I certainly wouldn't discourage them from reading it. Even if they can't relate, maybe they'll learn something about what boys go through as they struggle to fit in in the upper elementary school grades. The book was easy to read with short chapters which lend themselves to being read in short spurts if necessary. All this being said, there is one thing I didn't care for in the book and that was the way that it ended. I feel like the ending was rather abrupt rather than being worked to a well rounded ending. I look forward to reading the further adventures of Nate Rocks as they come out.
There were so many events in this book that I was able to connect to that I feel like the author studied my life before writing the book. Like Nate, I also had no athletic ability when I was in school and therefore was always the last one chosen for pick up games at recess, if I even got picked at all. Nate's mom doesn't see the sense in spending money to purchase something that she can easily make like Halloween costumes and Valentine's Day cards. Although my mom wasn't that bad, I could certainly connect with how Nate felt whenever he had to take them out in public. The humiliation is almost more than one can bear. I was also able to connect with Nate's feelings towards his sister Abby who treats him the same way his classmates do. Although my older sister was not that bad, we weren't the best of friends either as we went through those growing years.. So, what's a guy to do? Daydream, that's what. In his daydreams Nathan Rockledge becomes Nate Rock, Superhero, always there to save the day.
This book was such an enjoyable read because the author has made all of the characters so realistic and believable. As I read I found myself really liking Nate and Tommy and disliking Abby. I also liked Nate's Dad as he seems like a pretty good guy who, although a bit clueless (I think he has forgotten what it was like when he was Nate's age), really seems to understand how hard it is for a boy growing up. His mom, although likable, strikes me as a typical girl who either didn't have troubles as she grew up or doesn't care and thinks that kids should just "get over it." Either way, I'm sure glad that she wasn't my Mom. I highly recommend this book to boys in the 9-12 years age range. I'm not sure if girls would enjoy it or not but I certainly wouldn't discourage them from reading it. Even if they can't relate, maybe they'll learn something about what boys go through as they struggle to fit in in the upper elementary school grades. The book was easy to read with short chapters which lend themselves to being read in short spurts if necessary. All this being said, there is one thing I didn't care for in the book and that was the way that it ended. I feel like the ending was rather abrupt rather than being worked to a well rounded ending. I look forward to reading the further adventures of Nate Rocks as they come out.
July 19, 2011
Nathan Rockledge is a fourth-grader with all the usual problems afflicting kids: an irritating older sister who seems to delight in causing him grief; a mother that insists on cooking him meals and sewing him clothing, despite her lack of talent; and schoolwork and classmates besides. However, Nathan isn’t just any ten year old boy–he’s also Nate Rocks: astronaut, cowboy, spy, and singer extraordinaire–plus a few more talents besides.
Nathan may have to deal with his sister barging into his room, or his mother feeding him stuff that can’t be accurately described as food, but when he draws, his world gets much more interesting. Then, people around him have big problems, and who better to solve them than Nate Rocks? When bandits are busting up the local saloon, who should the sheriff call upon? Nate Rocks, cowboy! He’ll make quick work of the bandits, and rush off to save Lady Madeline, who they’ve tied to the train tracks, just in the nick of time. When singer Desmond Harper can’t perform at his concert, who should fill in for him but Nate Rocks? And Nate Rocks is always there to save the day, whether he’s delivering damsels from distress, saving super heroes, protecting the whole planet Earth, or just winning the World Series for the Phillies.
Nate Rocks the World by Karen Pokras Toz has everything you could ask of a children’s chapter book–adventure, fun characters, and a put-upon protagonist we can all relate to–and the author does a splendid job of involving us with the story and making us care about the characters.
When Nathan imagines himself a hero, he doesn’t just imagine himself in a spaceship heading for the moon, he imagines himself just as he is, just where he is–when something extraordinary happens, and he’s the only one around to save the day. “But why me?” he asks. “Because you’re Nate Rocks, of course!” they will answer. Because Nate Rocks is a real hero–when people need help, he always gives his best, and in the end, that’s all it takes.
Nathan’s imagined adventures and triumphs are great, and it’s fun when you realize that the scene has begun to take place in Nathan’s imagination, and you’re about to be treated to another adventure of Nate Rocks, but his real life adventures are interesting, too. When Nathan isn’t imagining himself to be a super-spy, he’s dodging his mother’s attempts at cooking, avoiding or plotting revenge on his sister, Abby, or just trying to get through fourth grade, and you’ll want to see all of it.
Nate Rocks the World has a fun story, interesting characters, and a great lesson about what it really means to be a hero. Read it, and I’m sure you’ll agree–-Nate rocks!
Disclosure: This review concerns a book acquired for free in a Goodreads First Reads giveaway.
Nathan may have to deal with his sister barging into his room, or his mother feeding him stuff that can’t be accurately described as food, but when he draws, his world gets much more interesting. Then, people around him have big problems, and who better to solve them than Nate Rocks? When bandits are busting up the local saloon, who should the sheriff call upon? Nate Rocks, cowboy! He’ll make quick work of the bandits, and rush off to save Lady Madeline, who they’ve tied to the train tracks, just in the nick of time. When singer Desmond Harper can’t perform at his concert, who should fill in for him but Nate Rocks? And Nate Rocks is always there to save the day, whether he’s delivering damsels from distress, saving super heroes, protecting the whole planet Earth, or just winning the World Series for the Phillies.
Nate Rocks the World by Karen Pokras Toz has everything you could ask of a children’s chapter book–adventure, fun characters, and a put-upon protagonist we can all relate to–and the author does a splendid job of involving us with the story and making us care about the characters.
When Nathan imagines himself a hero, he doesn’t just imagine himself in a spaceship heading for the moon, he imagines himself just as he is, just where he is–when something extraordinary happens, and he’s the only one around to save the day. “But why me?” he asks. “Because you’re Nate Rocks, of course!” they will answer. Because Nate Rocks is a real hero–when people need help, he always gives his best, and in the end, that’s all it takes.
Nathan’s imagined adventures and triumphs are great, and it’s fun when you realize that the scene has begun to take place in Nathan’s imagination, and you’re about to be treated to another adventure of Nate Rocks, but his real life adventures are interesting, too. When Nathan isn’t imagining himself to be a super-spy, he’s dodging his mother’s attempts at cooking, avoiding or plotting revenge on his sister, Abby, or just trying to get through fourth grade, and you’ll want to see all of it.
Nate Rocks the World has a fun story, interesting characters, and a great lesson about what it really means to be a hero. Read it, and I’m sure you’ll agree–-Nate rocks!
Disclosure: This review concerns a book acquired for free in a Goodreads First Reads giveaway.
November 16, 2011
Nate Rocks the World – Review by Martha A. Cheves, Author of Stir, Laugh, Repeat and Think With Your Taste Buds – Desserts
“What in the world?” I say quietly to myself. I turn back around to look inside the house. Everything I see is in shades of gray. The blue couch in our living room is gray. The green front door is now gray. The grass and the trees, all gray. Even Mom’s bright red van parked in the driveway is gray. I look down at my body. Sure enough, even my clothes are all gray! I take a step outside. It is a clear day, unseasonably warm for October. There is not a cloud in the sky. The sun – gray of course – shines white beams of light. As I walk down the street, people I do not recognize start coming out of their houses wondering, as I am, what has happened. I see a black spot in the sky growing larger. At first, I think it is a bird, but as it approaches, I realize that it is actually a person…flying toward me. A circle of people I don’t know, gather around me. The man from the sky gets closer. He lands directly in front of me, and I immediately recognize him.
Ten year old Nathan (Nate) Rockledge loves to draw. His specialty…superhero cartoons where he Nate Rocks is the hero that saves the moment. Give him a pencil and paper, a little quiet time and just about any situation and he will solve the problem as he saves the world. In his cartoon world, even Captain Asteroid seeks Nate’s help to save the world from the evil Dr. Shadow. Even the President seeks Nate Rocks’ help in recovering stolen spy equipment. But what happens when the situation is real and not make believe? Can the real Nate Rockledge stand up to the plate and become a true hero?
Nate Rocks the World takes the ordinary life of the Rockledge family and brings it to life as something most of us can actually relate to. If you’ve ever had an older sister or brother, you can understand Nate’s relationship with his older sister Abby. If your dad was like Nate’s you will see the humor in the stories he constantly tells about his own childhood. And if you were unfortunate enough to have a mother that couldn’t cook nor sew you will definitely relate to the bad meals and bad Halloween costumes created by Nate’s mother. This book is full of humor and sparked memories from my own childhood. It’s light hearted and a really enjoyable book to read if you’re an adult and a fun book to have read to you if you’re still a child.
Review Stir, Laugh, Repeat at Amazon.com Stir, Laugh, Repeat
“What in the world?” I say quietly to myself. I turn back around to look inside the house. Everything I see is in shades of gray. The blue couch in our living room is gray. The green front door is now gray. The grass and the trees, all gray. Even Mom’s bright red van parked in the driveway is gray. I look down at my body. Sure enough, even my clothes are all gray! I take a step outside. It is a clear day, unseasonably warm for October. There is not a cloud in the sky. The sun – gray of course – shines white beams of light. As I walk down the street, people I do not recognize start coming out of their houses wondering, as I am, what has happened. I see a black spot in the sky growing larger. At first, I think it is a bird, but as it approaches, I realize that it is actually a person…flying toward me. A circle of people I don’t know, gather around me. The man from the sky gets closer. He lands directly in front of me, and I immediately recognize him.
Ten year old Nathan (Nate) Rockledge loves to draw. His specialty…superhero cartoons where he Nate Rocks is the hero that saves the moment. Give him a pencil and paper, a little quiet time and just about any situation and he will solve the problem as he saves the world. In his cartoon world, even Captain Asteroid seeks Nate’s help to save the world from the evil Dr. Shadow. Even the President seeks Nate Rocks’ help in recovering stolen spy equipment. But what happens when the situation is real and not make believe? Can the real Nate Rockledge stand up to the plate and become a true hero?
Nate Rocks the World takes the ordinary life of the Rockledge family and brings it to life as something most of us can actually relate to. If you’ve ever had an older sister or brother, you can understand Nate’s relationship with his older sister Abby. If your dad was like Nate’s you will see the humor in the stories he constantly tells about his own childhood. And if you were unfortunate enough to have a mother that couldn’t cook nor sew you will definitely relate to the bad meals and bad Halloween costumes created by Nate’s mother. This book is full of humor and sparked memories from my own childhood. It’s light hearted and a really enjoyable book to read if you’re an adult and a fun book to have read to you if you’re still a child.
Review Stir, Laugh, Repeat at Amazon.com Stir, Laugh, Repeat
August 16, 2012
Nate Rocks The World is one of two stand-alone MG novels written by author Karen Pokras Toz. The other novel, Nate Rocks The Boat, features the same main character, but each can be read seperately, although connected.
When I first began reading Nate Rocks The World, I didn’t know what to expect. This is the first ever self-published MG novel I’ve ever read. It certainly didn’t dissapoint – instead it was a new and rewaring experience. What I loved the most about this book, is Nate’s creativity. He can’t stay focused. Give him a pencil, a marker, or whatever you want, and he starts drawing comics in which he acts as the hero and solves mysteries. Unfortunately for Nate, real life isn’t a comic book. While he would like nothing more than to go see the latest captain Asteroid movie with his best friends, he’s forced to stay at home to work on a project for school with a girl he can stand, who tells her Mom everything, and whose Mom tells all of that to Nate’s Mom, because they happen to best friends. Nate is often teased by his older sister Abby, he daydreams in school and gets caught doing so, and although his parents mean well, they always tend to embarass him. Basically, he’s suffering from the same things every fourth grader suffers from, with this exception – if it all gets too much, he starts drawing comics and escapes to his fantasy world.
I really enjoyed Nate’s adventures, and his enormous amount of humor and creativity. I can only imagine how much ten-year-olds will enjoy this as well. The book is written more for boys than for girls, but I think a girl would be able to relate to Nate as well. He’s a nice kid, and the events happening to him are easily relatable. For instance, when it’s Halloween, his Mom doesn’t see why she should purchase a halloween outfit for him. Instead she sets off to make one herself. The consequences are disastrous, because as it turns out, Mom can’t even make a proper cape! When Nate’s sister Abby manages to embarrass him even more on Halloween, Nate and his buddies decide it’s payback time. And Abby’s birthday sounds like the best place and location to get even.
The humor in this book is amazing, the characters are believable and relatable for parents and childrens alike, and the events are close to home, but Nate’s way to deal with them is original, fun and very enjoyable. A must-read for all MG book fans. I’m looking forward to getting started on the next book in this series. Nate Rocks The World deserves a spot in your book closet right now.
When I first began reading Nate Rocks The World, I didn’t know what to expect. This is the first ever self-published MG novel I’ve ever read. It certainly didn’t dissapoint – instead it was a new and rewaring experience. What I loved the most about this book, is Nate’s creativity. He can’t stay focused. Give him a pencil, a marker, or whatever you want, and he starts drawing comics in which he acts as the hero and solves mysteries. Unfortunately for Nate, real life isn’t a comic book. While he would like nothing more than to go see the latest captain Asteroid movie with his best friends, he’s forced to stay at home to work on a project for school with a girl he can stand, who tells her Mom everything, and whose Mom tells all of that to Nate’s Mom, because they happen to best friends. Nate is often teased by his older sister Abby, he daydreams in school and gets caught doing so, and although his parents mean well, they always tend to embarass him. Basically, he’s suffering from the same things every fourth grader suffers from, with this exception – if it all gets too much, he starts drawing comics and escapes to his fantasy world.
I really enjoyed Nate’s adventures, and his enormous amount of humor and creativity. I can only imagine how much ten-year-olds will enjoy this as well. The book is written more for boys than for girls, but I think a girl would be able to relate to Nate as well. He’s a nice kid, and the events happening to him are easily relatable. For instance, when it’s Halloween, his Mom doesn’t see why she should purchase a halloween outfit for him. Instead she sets off to make one herself. The consequences are disastrous, because as it turns out, Mom can’t even make a proper cape! When Nate’s sister Abby manages to embarrass him even more on Halloween, Nate and his buddies decide it’s payback time. And Abby’s birthday sounds like the best place and location to get even.
The humor in this book is amazing, the characters are believable and relatable for parents and childrens alike, and the events are close to home, but Nate’s way to deal with them is original, fun and very enjoyable. A must-read for all MG book fans. I’m looking forward to getting started on the next book in this series. Nate Rocks The World deserves a spot in your book closet right now.
December 14, 2011
Nate Rocks The World is a Children's Action/Adventure for ages 9 -12.
Nathan Rockledge is your typical ten year old boy. He feels his hair is too red, his freckles too many and his size too scrawny, however, put a pad of paper and a pencil in his hands and Nate could rule the world.
Nathan's older sister, Abby, is bossy and drives Nate crazy, his dad is always going on about when he was a boy and Nate's mom cannot cook anything that doesn't taste like cardboard and the thing is, his mom has no clue to her lack of culinary experience.
Things in Nate's real life don't always go as planned, like how he has to do his science fair project with a girl but not just ANY girl, but Lisa Crane, the only girl he did not wish to be matched up with!! Nor does he get along very well with Abby and when they each get a package for Christmas that tells them they are about to embark on a trip, his sister whines and moans about not having anything to wear while Nate is thinking about all the exciting and endless possibilities this trip could incur.
Whenever Nate needs a break from his reality, he picks up his trusty pencil and creates the situation in a positive way in which it usually works in Nate's favour, unlike his real life situations.
I found this to be a highly imaginative and creative story and enjoyed reading it. I thought the imagination of Nate and how he related to the world around him was hilarious and entertaining. I think this would make an excellent movie for children to view as I would love to see his imaginations come to life.
I enjoyed reading about each of the characters and how they interacted with Nate. I loved the outcomes of most of his situations and how he accepted each curve ball thrown at him. You will read how he hits a home run in the greatest baseball game in history to his travels in space, there is nothing found within the pages that will not impress your children to continue reading.
I would give Nate Rocks The World a five out of five stars for its imaginative creativity and how one could almost imagine it on the big screen, right down to which children could play the roles involved. Author Karen Pokras Toz has written a great book that is guaranteed to keep your young reader enthralled right to the very end.
Nathan Rockledge is your typical ten year old boy. He feels his hair is too red, his freckles too many and his size too scrawny, however, put a pad of paper and a pencil in his hands and Nate could rule the world.
Nathan's older sister, Abby, is bossy and drives Nate crazy, his dad is always going on about when he was a boy and Nate's mom cannot cook anything that doesn't taste like cardboard and the thing is, his mom has no clue to her lack of culinary experience.
Things in Nate's real life don't always go as planned, like how he has to do his science fair project with a girl but not just ANY girl, but Lisa Crane, the only girl he did not wish to be matched up with!! Nor does he get along very well with Abby and when they each get a package for Christmas that tells them they are about to embark on a trip, his sister whines and moans about not having anything to wear while Nate is thinking about all the exciting and endless possibilities this trip could incur.
Whenever Nate needs a break from his reality, he picks up his trusty pencil and creates the situation in a positive way in which it usually works in Nate's favour, unlike his real life situations.
I found this to be a highly imaginative and creative story and enjoyed reading it. I thought the imagination of Nate and how he related to the world around him was hilarious and entertaining. I think this would make an excellent movie for children to view as I would love to see his imaginations come to life.
I enjoyed reading about each of the characters and how they interacted with Nate. I loved the outcomes of most of his situations and how he accepted each curve ball thrown at him. You will read how he hits a home run in the greatest baseball game in history to his travels in space, there is nothing found within the pages that will not impress your children to continue reading.
I would give Nate Rocks The World a five out of five stars for its imaginative creativity and how one could almost imagine it on the big screen, right down to which children could play the roles involved. Author Karen Pokras Toz has written a great book that is guaranteed to keep your young reader enthralled right to the very end.
July 15, 2012
It's not every day you run across a good YA book for boys; so many of them seem to be for girls. Look no further than this one, because Nate Rocks the World is a winner. Ten years old and blessed with a vivid imagination, Nate seeks his escape from the torture inflicted on him by his 13-year-old sister by drawing pictures and escaping into a fantasy world.
The family scenes are priceless, one after another. Mom's cooking is to be avoided at all costs; when Nate snags an invitation to dinner at his friend Tommy's, it's like a miracle. And her lousy cooking is only trumped by her sewing, since his Mom always insists on sewing his Halloween costume. And instead of store-bought Valentine's Day cards Mom insists in pasting cards together using construction paper and heart-shaped doilies, and Nate has to write something on every one ... the drudgeries of life!
When Nate gets paired with his classmate Lisa Crane to work on a science project, his worst fears are realized. Not only will he have to work with the dreaded Lisa, who tells her mother EVERYTHING, and then Lisa's mother of course tells Nate's mother everything, too. Not only that, but he will have to sacrifice two Saturdays in a row to sit at the dining room table with bossy Lisa and work on the prism project. All this when he had planned to go and see the new Captain Asteroid movie with Tommy. Working with Lisa provides the perfect excuse to escape into a daydream featuring Captain Asteroid aided by none other than Nate Rocks, saving the world. What then transpires in the classroom when it's time for Nate and Lisa to give their presentation is hysterically funny on the one hand, but will make you groan with frustration on the other, because it all seems so real.
The story takes place over a period of several months. Nate's sister Abby is drawn just as colorfully as Nate himself, as is Nate's Dad. The writing in Nate Rocks the World is self-assured and swift-paced, just right for readers who are around Nate's age, and their parents. There are a hundred life lessons woven into the fabric of this lovely story, and it's a story you'll be happy to read over and over. I read the book on my Kindle, but I'm planning to give the paperback to my 13-year-old next week. I'd bet money he's going to love it.
The family scenes are priceless, one after another. Mom's cooking is to be avoided at all costs; when Nate snags an invitation to dinner at his friend Tommy's, it's like a miracle. And her lousy cooking is only trumped by her sewing, since his Mom always insists on sewing his Halloween costume. And instead of store-bought Valentine's Day cards Mom insists in pasting cards together using construction paper and heart-shaped doilies, and Nate has to write something on every one ... the drudgeries of life!
When Nate gets paired with his classmate Lisa Crane to work on a science project, his worst fears are realized. Not only will he have to work with the dreaded Lisa, who tells her mother EVERYTHING, and then Lisa's mother of course tells Nate's mother everything, too. Not only that, but he will have to sacrifice two Saturdays in a row to sit at the dining room table with bossy Lisa and work on the prism project. All this when he had planned to go and see the new Captain Asteroid movie with Tommy. Working with Lisa provides the perfect excuse to escape into a daydream featuring Captain Asteroid aided by none other than Nate Rocks, saving the world. What then transpires in the classroom when it's time for Nate and Lisa to give their presentation is hysterically funny on the one hand, but will make you groan with frustration on the other, because it all seems so real.
The story takes place over a period of several months. Nate's sister Abby is drawn just as colorfully as Nate himself, as is Nate's Dad. The writing in Nate Rocks the World is self-assured and swift-paced, just right for readers who are around Nate's age, and their parents. There are a hundred life lessons woven into the fabric of this lovely story, and it's a story you'll be happy to read over and over. I read the book on my Kindle, but I'm planning to give the paperback to my 13-year-old next week. I'd bet money he's going to love it.
October 23, 2013
ate Rockledge is a ten year old boy who, like most boys his age, has a barrage of problems. He hates school, and because he has no athletic talent is always the last one chosen. Nate’s family seems dysfunctional to him. His mother can’t cook or sew, yet she expects him to eat the food she prepares and wear the lopsided Halloween costumes she insists on sewing for him. She also forces him to hang out with her friend’s daughter, Lisa, who is the class nerd. Nate has a thirteen year old sister named Abby who torments and teases him. His dad tries to be cool, but retells the same old stories so often that he makes a fool of himself. Nate does have a cool friend named Tommy who is often involved with his adventures, yet Nate’s only enjoyment is drawing cartoons and daydreaming that he is a superhero. In those moments he can say, “Nate Rocks.”
So Nate the protagonist alternates between a ho-hum existence and a penchant for imagining heroic exploits where he is suddenly drawn into situations in which people desperately need help. For example, rescuing a dog from a burning house, releasing a girl tied to railroad tracks, helping a child find her way home, and becoming an astronaut to save the earth from being destroyed by a meteorite. The reader is sucked into the action because the dialogue and story line are woven in such a way that you cannot help but cheer Nate on in his exploits even when they seem highly improbable. Then a day comes along when Nate gets the opportunity to be a real hero.
The book is recommended for middle grades or ages nine through twelve. I feel that the book appeals to boys and girls because Abby is also a strong female character. Lots of tweens will see similarities with how they view their relationships with family and school friends. There is a great deal of humor in the story. You might even find yourself laughing out loud. Young readers will find many family and school incidents which will be similar to the events happening in their own lives. The approximately 140 page book is a quick read with lots of action that will attract even a reluctant reader. Classroom teachers might want to use the story as a morning read aloud over a few sessions to garner reading interest and enhance listening skills.
So Nate the protagonist alternates between a ho-hum existence and a penchant for imagining heroic exploits where he is suddenly drawn into situations in which people desperately need help. For example, rescuing a dog from a burning house, releasing a girl tied to railroad tracks, helping a child find her way home, and becoming an astronaut to save the earth from being destroyed by a meteorite. The reader is sucked into the action because the dialogue and story line are woven in such a way that you cannot help but cheer Nate on in his exploits even when they seem highly improbable. Then a day comes along when Nate gets the opportunity to be a real hero.
The book is recommended for middle grades or ages nine through twelve. I feel that the book appeals to boys and girls because Abby is also a strong female character. Lots of tweens will see similarities with how they view their relationships with family and school friends. There is a great deal of humor in the story. You might even find yourself laughing out loud. Young readers will find many family and school incidents which will be similar to the events happening in their own lives. The approximately 140 page book is a quick read with lots of action that will attract even a reluctant reader. Classroom teachers might want to use the story as a morning read aloud over a few sessions to garner reading interest and enhance listening skills.
December 12, 2011
My Review:
When I saw the cover for Nate Rocks the World, I was immediately interested. As the mom of a 10 year old son who is reluctant to read, I am always on the lookout for books that will draw his interest. His preferences tend to run to books like Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Captain Underpants. I have purchased numerous books from the stores and through books clubs that I felt would interested a boy his age, only to see them remain on his bookshelves unless cooerced (or bribed) to read them. So when the opportunity came my way to review for author, Karen Pokras Toz, I was excited. To finally find a book that was geared toward my son's reading level and (hopefully) his interest level!
As I read this book, I found some interesting similarities between the main character, Nate Rockledge, and my son. Both boys are 10 years old, in fourth grade, have sisters (though mine is the oldest and does not have an older sister), love drawing comics and using his imagination! What a find! As the story progressed, I myself was entertained by Nate's mind, and his way of dealing with difficulties that most fourth graders deal with. I loved this book from start to finish! My son has just began reading it, and promised to let me know what he thinks so I can post "his review" on Dec 12th during the Nate Rocks the World book tour! I'm hopeful that I'll get more than "it's ok" from him.
Nate Rocks the World is a great book for any boy (or girl) in the 7 to 14 age range, in my opinion. I look forward to reading more by Karen Pokras Toz!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*added 12/12/11 ~
Review by Josh age 10:
I think Nate Rocks the World is one of the best books I've ever read. I like how he draws comics like I do. My favorite part of the book is when he captured the robbers. You should read Nate Rocks the World. It is a great book for any kid.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in hopes that I would post a review on my blog. See My Policy & Disclosure for more info (http://lovez2read.blogspot.com)
When I saw the cover for Nate Rocks the World, I was immediately interested. As the mom of a 10 year old son who is reluctant to read, I am always on the lookout for books that will draw his interest. His preferences tend to run to books like Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Captain Underpants. I have purchased numerous books from the stores and through books clubs that I felt would interested a boy his age, only to see them remain on his bookshelves unless cooerced (or bribed) to read them. So when the opportunity came my way to review for author, Karen Pokras Toz, I was excited. To finally find a book that was geared toward my son's reading level and (hopefully) his interest level!
As I read this book, I found some interesting similarities between the main character, Nate Rockledge, and my son. Both boys are 10 years old, in fourth grade, have sisters (though mine is the oldest and does not have an older sister), love drawing comics and using his imagination! What a find! As the story progressed, I myself was entertained by Nate's mind, and his way of dealing with difficulties that most fourth graders deal with. I loved this book from start to finish! My son has just began reading it, and promised to let me know what he thinks so I can post "his review" on Dec 12th during the Nate Rocks the World book tour! I'm hopeful that I'll get more than "it's ok" from him.
Nate Rocks the World is a great book for any boy (or girl) in the 7 to 14 age range, in my opinion. I look forward to reading more by Karen Pokras Toz!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*added 12/12/11 ~
Review by Josh age 10:
I think Nate Rocks the World is one of the best books I've ever read. I like how he draws comics like I do. My favorite part of the book is when he captured the robbers. You should read Nate Rocks the World. It is a great book for any kid.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in hopes that I would post a review on my blog. See My Policy & Disclosure for more info (http://lovez2read.blogspot.com)
May 10, 2012
Armed with a vivid imagination and a passion for drawing, Nathan Rockledge's world is never dull. It's his way of dealing with being in the fourth grade as well as having an overbearing thirteen-year-old sister and the pressures of home. Nate can't help the fact that his imagination runs away with him more times than he can count. His dreams and drawings are the only things that make his life worthwhile, passions from which he'll never part.
His parents aren't thrilled that he spends most of his time immersed within his imaginary worlds. They want the best for him, even if Nate can't quite see that as of yet. His sister believes he's a hindrance within her every day life and she'll do everything she can to make him feel inferior. Nate isn't one to be left behind and makes sure he takes turns at upsetting her world whenever possible. After all, sibling rivalries aren't that much fun unless you can give as much as you get, right?
Losing himself in the world around him, Nate is able to perform extraordinary feats in order to save those who need a helping hand. There's never a dull moment in his life, as there's nothing he wouldn't do in order to make sure his world is fine and dandy. With his sketch and coloring pencils in hand, every aspect of the world he lives in comes to life in vivid color.
Nate dives into his adventures head on, content in giving a helping hand wherever it's needed. A world of his making, Nate's dreams come true in the oddest, yet most intriguing of ways. This allows him to share his passions with his friends and family, even if they don't understand where he's coming from in the first place.
This was such a delightful read. Karen uses Nate's passion for drawing to bring to life the unique situations he finds himself in. Each and every adventure is something any child can relate to. The book is beautifully written in a manner that a child of any age can easily understand the story. I enjoyed this first book of a truly wonderful series.
His parents aren't thrilled that he spends most of his time immersed within his imaginary worlds. They want the best for him, even if Nate can't quite see that as of yet. His sister believes he's a hindrance within her every day life and she'll do everything she can to make him feel inferior. Nate isn't one to be left behind and makes sure he takes turns at upsetting her world whenever possible. After all, sibling rivalries aren't that much fun unless you can give as much as you get, right?
Losing himself in the world around him, Nate is able to perform extraordinary feats in order to save those who need a helping hand. There's never a dull moment in his life, as there's nothing he wouldn't do in order to make sure his world is fine and dandy. With his sketch and coloring pencils in hand, every aspect of the world he lives in comes to life in vivid color.
Nate dives into his adventures head on, content in giving a helping hand wherever it's needed. A world of his making, Nate's dreams come true in the oddest, yet most intriguing of ways. This allows him to share his passions with his friends and family, even if they don't understand where he's coming from in the first place.
This was such a delightful read. Karen uses Nate's passion for drawing to bring to life the unique situations he finds himself in. Each and every adventure is something any child can relate to. The book is beautifully written in a manner that a child of any age can easily understand the story. I enjoyed this first book of a truly wonderful series.
September 5, 2011
TITLE: Nate Rocks The World
AUTHOR: Karen P. Toz
PUBLISHER: CreateSpace http://www.createspace.com
FORMAT: Ebook, paperback
PRICE: Paperback $6.99, ebook $2.99 (US)
Paperback £3.03, ebook £2.13 (UK)
PAGES: 136
ISBN-10: 1463510829
ISBN-13: 9781463510824
It’s so tough to be ten-years-old. Nobody knows this better than Nate. He has to put up with his bossy big sister and listening to his father’s never – ending stories about when he was growing up. Not only this, but his mother doesn’t know how to cook. She thinks she does and even makes meals for Nate and his family. The problem is, all the meals taste like cardboard! To make matters even worse, the teacher pairs him up to do a science project with a (ugh!) girl.
On Christmas morning, Nate’s world seems to look up when he and his sister get a small package. The family is going on a trip. Is his bossy sister happy about this? No. She whines and complains how she has nothing to wear on the trip and has to work on her tan before they hit the beach.
So, how does Nate escape the atrocities of his life? Drawing! Give Nate a sketch pad, pencils, crayons and Nate’s imagination can take him anywhere, do anything and most importantly, do it his way. In practically every chapter Nate’s imagination takes him on another adventure. He also has a way to get out of eating his mom’s cooking. The problem is that this only works some of the time. Nate plays with his best friend and hopes he is invited for dinner.
I just loved this book! Karen P. Toz shows all of the trials and imaginative solutions of a ten-year-old boy perfectly. Nate rocks!
To learn more about Karen, just surf over to her website at: http://karentoz.com. You can also join her fan page for Nate Rocks The World at: http://www.facebook.com/karenptoz.
AUTHOR: Karen P. Toz
PUBLISHER: CreateSpace http://www.createspace.com
FORMAT: Ebook, paperback
PRICE: Paperback $6.99, ebook $2.99 (US)
Paperback £3.03, ebook £2.13 (UK)
PAGES: 136
ISBN-10: 1463510829
ISBN-13: 9781463510824
It’s so tough to be ten-years-old. Nobody knows this better than Nate. He has to put up with his bossy big sister and listening to his father’s never – ending stories about when he was growing up. Not only this, but his mother doesn’t know how to cook. She thinks she does and even makes meals for Nate and his family. The problem is, all the meals taste like cardboard! To make matters even worse, the teacher pairs him up to do a science project with a (ugh!) girl.
On Christmas morning, Nate’s world seems to look up when he and his sister get a small package. The family is going on a trip. Is his bossy sister happy about this? No. She whines and complains how she has nothing to wear on the trip and has to work on her tan before they hit the beach.
So, how does Nate escape the atrocities of his life? Drawing! Give Nate a sketch pad, pencils, crayons and Nate’s imagination can take him anywhere, do anything and most importantly, do it his way. In practically every chapter Nate’s imagination takes him on another adventure. He also has a way to get out of eating his mom’s cooking. The problem is that this only works some of the time. Nate plays with his best friend and hopes he is invited for dinner.
I just loved this book! Karen P. Toz shows all of the trials and imaginative solutions of a ten-year-old boy perfectly. Nate rocks!
To learn more about Karen, just surf over to her website at: http://karentoz.com. You can also join her fan page for Nate Rocks The World at: http://www.facebook.com/karenptoz.
July 5, 2013
Reading books with the target audience being children has always held a remote curiosity for me. For starters, it allows me the opportunity to read something that is outside of my normal genre of works to review. The curiosity comes because I get to see just how much children's books have changed in the last thirty to forty years.
Nate Rocks the World is a far cry from Curious George or Dr. Seuss. This work is written for the more mature individual; a child that falls within the ages of 7 to 12. If the audience were any younger, the language in which the book is written would go over their heads; and if the audience were older, the storyline would be lost since clearly, children are reading stories with more mature themes.
Karen Toz manages to capture the imagination of a boy who doesn't have to deal with life's grim realities where he has to grow up too soon. Perhaps this is what makes Nate Rocks the World so enjoyable. Nestled within the pages of Toz's work is the innocence that is clearly lacking for our children in this day in age.
She manages to paint images of idyllic childhood situations that only a small boy could dream of, and does it with a flair that is both light-hearted and endearing. Nate Rocks the World transports me to the times of Hopscotch, Mother-May-I, Freeze-Tag and One-Two-Three Redlight, but does it on the terms of a child living in 2013.
The story tells of the day to day events within the life of a fourth grader who flows back and forth between his vivid imagination and his normal everyday life with his friends and family.
In a word, Nate Rocks!
I strongly encourage the author to keep writing in the style that she does, because her work lifts the heart and manages to bring a smile to the face of all who reads it. Hats off to Karen Toz.
July 26, 2012
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What's with the lack of MG/YA targeted toward boys? SO many times I've had boys come up to me at work and ask for help finding books and wind up leaving with a Rick Riordan novel, a Diary of a Wimpy Kid book, or an adult sci-fi novel that's far too mature for them. I'm pretty excited that I now have another series to recommend: Nate Rocks.
Nathan Rockledge, or Nate Rocks, is a typical 10-year old boy: his 13-year old sister drives him crazy, his mother's cardboard pasta will be the death of him, and he would much rather do just about anything than be paired up with a girl as his science partner.
When the going gets tough, the tough...whip out their sketchpads and save the world. Nate's done it all: save Earth from an asteroid, rescue a woman tied to train tracks, help take down evil villains. Throughout the book Nate has daydreams about being the hero and those were so much fun to read!
Nate Rocks the World is fairly fast-paced, but it works and I think that's a plus for its target audience. Well-written, relatable characters made this book a joy to read and I know boys will absolutely LOVE this series.
I don't know what it is about dads and leather recliners, but it seems like every dad I know has one. Is it something you get at the hospital when they hand you the baby? "Congratulations sir, it's a boy, and here is your leather recliner."
What's with the lack of MG/YA targeted toward boys? SO many times I've had boys come up to me at work and ask for help finding books and wind up leaving with a Rick Riordan novel, a Diary of a Wimpy Kid book, or an adult sci-fi novel that's far too mature for them. I'm pretty excited that I now have another series to recommend: Nate Rocks.
Nathan Rockledge, or Nate Rocks, is a typical 10-year old boy: his 13-year old sister drives him crazy, his mother's cardboard pasta will be the death of him, and he would much rather do just about anything than be paired up with a girl as his science partner.
When the going gets tough, the tough...whip out their sketchpads and save the world. Nate's done it all: save Earth from an asteroid, rescue a woman tied to train tracks, help take down evil villains. Throughout the book Nate has daydreams about being the hero and those were so much fun to read!
Nate Rocks the World is fairly fast-paced, but it works and I think that's a plus for its target audience. Well-written, relatable characters made this book a joy to read and I know boys will absolutely LOVE this series.
March 7, 2012
I received Nate Rock the World By Karen Pokras Toz through good reads first-reads giveaway. I thought it book was so cute and a really good read for kids. I wanted to sit down and read this book to my little cousins who are between the ages of 3-7. I liked how the importance of imagination was shown in this book. I feel in today's society the imagination is really not a thing that is supported. Children are taught young now not to use their imagination and it is often not nurtured as it should be. In today's school systems kids are taught to remember dates times and information, but not to understand it or to learn it in their own way. This story shows in the beginning how Nate learns. He learns differently from others but he learns in his own way. He sits and draws and imagines things but he learns just as much as someone who sits down and tries to remember all the information given to a student. At times in this story though I was taken a little off guard. I was unsure if what was taking place was in reality or in Nate's imagination. By the time that the end of the book came I thought what was happening was in his imagination again, but instead it was really happening. Its a good concept though, it shows the kids reading it that they can dream and believed and imagine because they can make a difference. One day they too might be a hero. I really did like this story and I think its a good story for kids to read or have read to them.
January 12, 2012
I really liked the book because whenever Nate got a pencil and paper, he started drawing comics. He didn't stay focused on what he was supposed to. One time, they were playing hangman, Tommy (his best friend) guessed the word because of the comic Nate drew. Sometimes his comics get him off task in school. He would rather draw comics than take a test!
The book is probably for kids around the age of 10 or so, and it would probably be more for boys, but since I am a tomboy, I tended to enjoy the book.
This is one of those stories that a kid can pick up and read just for fun--there is no hidden message or anything like that.
Tommy is the character I would most like to meet in real life because his mom was the absolute best cook in the world! Nate's mom, on the other hand, has the worst cooking ever! (Kind of like my mom! It's okay, she knows I don't like her cooking. In fact, she is the one typing the review for me!)
I give this book a rating of a 4 because it kind of got boring after a little while with all the comics. I am not one who enjoys comics that much, but I have to say that the story is great!
Reviewed by my eight-year-old daughter in exchange for a free copy of the book. All opinions are 100 percent hers, and she was not financially compensated in any way.
The book is probably for kids around the age of 10 or so, and it would probably be more for boys, but since I am a tomboy, I tended to enjoy the book.
This is one of those stories that a kid can pick up and read just for fun--there is no hidden message or anything like that.
Tommy is the character I would most like to meet in real life because his mom was the absolute best cook in the world! Nate's mom, on the other hand, has the worst cooking ever! (Kind of like my mom! It's okay, she knows I don't like her cooking. In fact, she is the one typing the review for me!)
I give this book a rating of a 4 because it kind of got boring after a little while with all the comics. I am not one who enjoys comics that much, but I have to say that the story is great!
Reviewed by my eight-year-old daughter in exchange for a free copy of the book. All opinions are 100 percent hers, and she was not financially compensated in any way.
July 26, 2012
Ten year old Nate Rockledge has so many crummy things going on: his mom can't cook, his older sister is super annoying, and he has to end up with the most bratty girl in the fourth grade as a science project partner! Luckily for him, he is a hero--a baseball star, a firefighter, an astronaut--all in his imagination. All he has to do is start sketching.
This was a cool lower grade novel! Nate, who shares my son's name, is a fun kid with an endless imagination.
Nate and his best friend Tommy are in fourth grade. I think this is a bittersweet age; kids are still young enough to have that childlike innocence, but they are also starting to become painfully aware of the world around them--for example, Nate doesn't want his parents tagging along while he trick or treats with his friends.
There were plenty of smile and laugh-worthy moments in the book. I loved Nate's plan to get back at his sister...even though it didn't turn out quite like he expected. In Nate's daydreams, the moments were intense but also funny--to imagine a 10 year old doing the things he described!
I have a special spot in my heart for mischievous kids who get themselves into trouble without really having to try. Now Nate Rockledge is among some of my faves--including Ramona Quimby, Judy Moody, and Superfudge!
This was a cool lower grade novel! Nate, who shares my son's name, is a fun kid with an endless imagination.
Nate and his best friend Tommy are in fourth grade. I think this is a bittersweet age; kids are still young enough to have that childlike innocence, but they are also starting to become painfully aware of the world around them--for example, Nate doesn't want his parents tagging along while he trick or treats with his friends.
There were plenty of smile and laugh-worthy moments in the book. I loved Nate's plan to get back at his sister...even though it didn't turn out quite like he expected. In Nate's daydreams, the moments were intense but also funny--to imagine a 10 year old doing the things he described!
I have a special spot in my heart for mischievous kids who get themselves into trouble without really having to try. Now Nate Rockledge is among some of my faves--including Ramona Quimby, Judy Moody, and Superfudge!
August 13, 2012
My review:
Reading books for this age group now that I'm a mom is a little weird. In one scene, Nate's father is recalling an incident involving his own father, a marshmallow, and a microwave. My first thought was, "They wouldn't have had a microwave back then." Except that *I* have a ten-year-old, which makes me around same age (if not older than) Nate's parents. And we had a microwave "back then". I know I'm getting old when I'm closer to the age of the parents in the story than the kids.
Poor Nate has to deal with his mom's bad cooking, an annoying older sister, and a tattle-tale classmate, when all he really wants to do is draw. His sister irritated me, and his oblivious parents weren't much better. But I loved that the whole book wasn't a constant complaint about his family. It's not completely horrible in their home, and their Christmas morning traditions sound like a lot of fun. I loved the ending, too, but of course, I won't tell you more about that. :-)
The 10-year-old's review:
It was a really good book. I read it four times. (What he doesn't say is that the afternoon it came in the mail, he and the book immediately disappeared for a couple hours. After he read it, he allowed me to read it, but I had to give it right back.)
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Reading books for this age group now that I'm a mom is a little weird. In one scene, Nate's father is recalling an incident involving his own father, a marshmallow, and a microwave. My first thought was, "They wouldn't have had a microwave back then." Except that *I* have a ten-year-old, which makes me around same age (if not older than) Nate's parents. And we had a microwave "back then". I know I'm getting old when I'm closer to the age of the parents in the story than the kids.
Poor Nate has to deal with his mom's bad cooking, an annoying older sister, and a tattle-tale classmate, when all he really wants to do is draw. His sister irritated me, and his oblivious parents weren't much better. But I loved that the whole book wasn't a constant complaint about his family. It's not completely horrible in their home, and their Christmas morning traditions sound like a lot of fun. I loved the ending, too, but of course, I won't tell you more about that. :-)
The 10-year-old's review:
It was a really good book. I read it four times. (What he doesn't say is that the afternoon it came in the mail, he and the book immediately disappeared for a couple hours. After he read it, he allowed me to read it, but I had to give it right back.)
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2011
Nate Rocks the World takes you into the internal creative world of Nate, who is plagued by his older sister, Abby, who torments him at every turn and an overprotective mother that never seems to see the bigger picture. Nate sees no escape from his mundane life, until he puts pencil to paper and his wildest dreams come alive. Are his drawings morphing in his imagination and coming to life in reality or is it all just his wishful thinking?
“Hey Nathan! Earth to Nathan! Why are you just sitting there smiling? Tommy asks. And what’s with the cartoon you drew of someone playing guitar? I thought we were trying to come up with a prank for Abby?”
Will Nate’s reality and dreams collide and make his life bearable? How does Nate distinguish between the two without coming across crazy? Find out in Karen Pokras Toz’s middle grade adventure Nate Rocks the World and discover where your imagination can take you.
Karen Pokras Toz has the unique knack of bringing to life the questions, fears, and dreams that many a young boy has swirling in their minds on any given day. Making for a hilarious and relatable quest by Nate.
Learn more about Toz’s fascinating writing life at www.Karentoz.com
“Hey Nathan! Earth to Nathan! Why are you just sitting there smiling? Tommy asks. And what’s with the cartoon you drew of someone playing guitar? I thought we were trying to come up with a prank for Abby?”
Will Nate’s reality and dreams collide and make his life bearable? How does Nate distinguish between the two without coming across crazy? Find out in Karen Pokras Toz’s middle grade adventure Nate Rocks the World and discover where your imagination can take you.
Karen Pokras Toz has the unique knack of bringing to life the questions, fears, and dreams that many a young boy has swirling in their minds on any given day. Making for a hilarious and relatable quest by Nate.
Learn more about Toz’s fascinating writing life at www.Karentoz.com
January 8, 2012
When I first started reading this book, I found myself laughing at the imaginary scenes that Nathan Rockledge kept imagining. He likes to doodle, and while he doodles, he dreams of the time when he can finally be the hero he knows he is inside. Maybe if he’s a hero he can get real food instead of the stuff his Mom cooks (no one wants to tell her she can’t cook). Maybe if he’s a hero he can stop his sister from harassing him all the time (an older sister is SUCH a pain). Maybe if he’s a hero he won’t have to listen to his dad repeat his stories over and over (and over and over).
As Nate and his best friend, Tommy, deal with day to day life in the fourth grade, things happen…purple things involving his dad, scary things involving his sister, hilarious things involving school. Some of the funniest parts are his memories involving his family, as well as the horror at being paired with a girl for a science project. She wants to use the word “rainbows.” How can a guy recover from such a tragedy?
A great story for elementary and middle aged kids, but certainly not just for them. A story that will resonate with older kids and adults, too, as they remember “those” days!
Valerie
As Nate and his best friend, Tommy, deal with day to day life in the fourth grade, things happen…purple things involving his dad, scary things involving his sister, hilarious things involving school. Some of the funniest parts are his memories involving his family, as well as the horror at being paired with a girl for a science project. She wants to use the word “rainbows.” How can a guy recover from such a tragedy?
A great story for elementary and middle aged kids, but certainly not just for them. A story that will resonate with older kids and adults, too, as they remember “those” days!
Valerie
July 6, 2011
Nate Rockledge is ten years old, and he has many of the difficulties boys of his age face. His mother is a truly terrible cook. His father reminisces endlessly about past glories. His thirteen year old sister taunts him mercilessly.
But Nate has a secret. Like a fourth grade Walter Mitty, Nate dreams of heroic adventures where he saves the day, and often the life of the cute Madeline who lives across the street, although Nate does.not.like.girls! Unfortunately, after saving the day, he is left with little but the comics he draws and the wish that he could do something real. Little does he know how close the chance for real heroics is.
I love the way the author seamlessly blends Nate's real life and his fantasies of heroism and excitement. Middle grade readers, especially on the younger end, will easily relate to the loose boundaries between real life and fantasy, and will also instantly relate to the real trials and tribulations Nate faces with his family and friends.
I can easily recommend this book for both boys and girls in third through fifth grade. I'm glad to have had a chance to read it.
*A review copy was provided by the author upon my request*
But Nate has a secret. Like a fourth grade Walter Mitty, Nate dreams of heroic adventures where he saves the day, and often the life of the cute Madeline who lives across the street, although Nate does.not.like.girls! Unfortunately, after saving the day, he is left with little but the comics he draws and the wish that he could do something real. Little does he know how close the chance for real heroics is.
I love the way the author seamlessly blends Nate's real life and his fantasies of heroism and excitement. Middle grade readers, especially on the younger end, will easily relate to the loose boundaries between real life and fantasy, and will also instantly relate to the real trials and tribulations Nate faces with his family and friends.
I can easily recommend this book for both boys and girls in third through fifth grade. I'm glad to have had a chance to read it.
*A review copy was provided by the author upon my request*
December 3, 2011
Poor Nathan. He has a big sister who is a pain and a mom who cannot cook or sew but still insists on making his lunches and his Halloween costumes. He also has to put up with a science project partner who tells her mom everything, who then in turn tells his mom. Is it any wonder he likes to lose himself in his imagination and his sketching? Unfortunately for Nate, he doesn't always get good ideas when his cartoons come to life.
I found Nate Rocks the World to be cute and funny. It reminded me of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, but without the illustrations. There is a surprise ending that I did not see coming. This book is geared for approximately ages 7 to 12. In some places, it may be just a little too detailed for the attention spans of the younger ones, and they may lose interest. However, overall, this is a great book to read with the kids in the younger range and for the older kids who enjoy chapter books. It would be very easy for kids this age to relate to Nate. Especially if they also have big imaginations. Wait, what kid doesn't?
This a reprint from a review on my blog, Krazy Book Lady
I found Nate Rocks the World to be cute and funny. It reminded me of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, but without the illustrations. There is a surprise ending that I did not see coming. This book is geared for approximately ages 7 to 12. In some places, it may be just a little too detailed for the attention spans of the younger ones, and they may lose interest. However, overall, this is a great book to read with the kids in the younger range and for the older kids who enjoy chapter books. It would be very easy for kids this age to relate to Nate. Especially if they also have big imaginations. Wait, what kid doesn't?
This a reprint from a review on my blog, Krazy Book Lady
December 8, 2011
This is a fascinating and fun story that middle grade boys are going to love. Nate can’t catch a break. School is painful at best, especially when he gets paired up with Lisa Crane for a science project. Nate’s mom and Lisa’s mom are good friends, so he better be on his best behavior or someone is going to hear about it. He’s got a best friend, Tommy, but when they’re together things just don’t seem to go their way. His sister Abby is a royal pain in the neck, but their parents are always asking for his understanding while she goes through a phase. Even the family vacation can’t turn out right if he’s around.
What makes it all bearable is Nate’s ability to totally get lost in his drawing, daydreaming of how he becomes Nate Rocks and can do anything. He can help Captain Asteroid defeat the evil Dr. Shadow. His great baseball skills can turn the Phillies into a championship team. He can even save the neighbor’s dog from a burning house.
Toz definitely has a finger on the pulse of this market. She knows what’s exciting to them and uses it to create a page-turner that will leave them wanting more. I could definitely see Nate Rocks the World as a movie–a very funny movie.
What makes it all bearable is Nate’s ability to totally get lost in his drawing, daydreaming of how he becomes Nate Rocks and can do anything. He can help Captain Asteroid defeat the evil Dr. Shadow. His great baseball skills can turn the Phillies into a championship team. He can even save the neighbor’s dog from a burning house.
Toz definitely has a finger on the pulse of this market. She knows what’s exciting to them and uses it to create a page-turner that will leave them wanting more. I could definitely see Nate Rocks the World as a movie–a very funny movie.
January 25, 2013
Nate Rocks the World is a children/YA book. I previously reviews Nate Rocks the Boat back in December which is actually the second book in the series. You get a glimpse at what will happen in book two of what happens in book one, but really you can read them in any order.
Nathan is the primary character in the story, but when he daydreams he becomes Nate Rocks. This happens pretty much any time he is writing/drawing. In this book, Captain Asteroid, the comic superhero he follows currently, shows up time and time again to get Nate to do things he didn't think possible. His imagination runs rampant creating scenarios where whatever he has been doing before the day dream morphs into a situation where a hero is needed and only Nate can solve the problem. It's your standard ten year old day dreams really. What makes the story unique is that by the end of the book, Nathan is actually called to save his sister and her friend from drowning in the ocean. Nate Rocks doesn't make an appearance, instead Nathan is all the hero that is needed. It's a cute story that a young boy will definitely relate to and love.
Read more reviews at Identity Discovery Blog.
Nathan is the primary character in the story, but when he daydreams he becomes Nate Rocks. This happens pretty much any time he is writing/drawing. In this book, Captain Asteroid, the comic superhero he follows currently, shows up time and time again to get Nate to do things he didn't think possible. His imagination runs rampant creating scenarios where whatever he has been doing before the day dream morphs into a situation where a hero is needed and only Nate can solve the problem. It's your standard ten year old day dreams really. What makes the story unique is that by the end of the book, Nathan is actually called to save his sister and her friend from drowning in the ocean. Nate Rocks doesn't make an appearance, instead Nathan is all the hero that is needed. It's a cute story that a young boy will definitely relate to and love.
Read more reviews at Identity Discovery Blog.
January 31, 2012
Ten-year-old Nate is a good kid, but he has some challenges in his life. His older sister torments him constantly. He's starving because his mom can't cook. And he hates recess because he'd rather sit in the classroom and draw cartoons than play sports outside. In Nate Rocks the World, Karen Pokras Toz introduces us to Nate in a fun, adventurous way.
In general, we follow Nate through some pretty typical fourth-grade activities: a science project with an annoying partner, Halloween, Christmas. But Toz makes the story much more interesting as she interweaves Nate's adventurous daydreams into the day-to-day activities. In his mind, he rescues a dog from a house fire and helps a superhero save the world, among other crazy things!
Nate Rocks the World is a lot of fun and I think it would appeal to kids in elementary and early middle school. My 7 year old hasn't read it yet, but he wants to and I'm sure he'll enjoy it. This is the first in a series, so I look forward to reading more about Nate in the future!
In general, we follow Nate through some pretty typical fourth-grade activities: a science project with an annoying partner, Halloween, Christmas. But Toz makes the story much more interesting as she interweaves Nate's adventurous daydreams into the day-to-day activities. In his mind, he rescues a dog from a house fire and helps a superhero save the world, among other crazy things!
Nate Rocks the World is a lot of fun and I think it would appeal to kids in elementary and early middle school. My 7 year old hasn't read it yet, but he wants to and I'm sure he'll enjoy it. This is the first in a series, so I look forward to reading more about Nate in the future!
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