You Can Do It, Rocket!: Persistence Pays Off

How do you handle yourself when someone makes fun of your performance?

Rocket, the English Springer Spaniel, works through his "To Do List" of jobs on a daily basis. He takes pride in being a Springer Spaniel and loves to do his work correctly. He believes in himself and has an extreme amount of self-confidence.

Fast, tough, scrappy, with a "never give up" attitude - these are the qualities of his heritage. But there is one job that he truly loves that he doesn't do perfectly. He tries and tries to master it - with no success. He just can't seem to catch a squirrel! The squirrels tease and make fun of him each time he misses!

Then, one fateful day, Rocket encounters a group of seven unsuspecting squirrels. He chases them, but misses again! The squirrels do their usual teasing behaviors, but this time, they take their taunting to the next level!

Embarrassed, angry, and feeling defeated, Rocket starts to think that maybe he's not a very good Springer after all! Will he give up or will he try to prove the squirrels wrong?

Capturing the true personalities and behaviors of Rocket, the squirrels, and the other supporting characters, the comical and well-detailed illustrations are sure to bring a smile.

You Can Do It, Rocket, a story told from the dog's perspective, will serve as a catalyst for some deep thought and discussion regarding perseverance, goal setting, work ethic, and bullying.

About the Author
Kesterke, Mike: - MIKE KESTERKE, is a former Michigan elementary school teacher (13 years) and school principal (20 years). After retiring from the public school system, Mike served as an adjunct professor of Education for Grand Rapids Community College and later as the Executive Director of Head Start for Ottawa County. In addition, he worked as a student teacher supervisor on behalf of Northern Michigan University. His experience working with students encompasses the entire spectrum of learners, pre-K through college.Mike earned his Bachelors Degree from Grand Valley State University, and Masters Degree in Education from Michigan State University. He received his Educational Leadership endorsement from Western Michigan University.Mike lives in Holland, MI, and is the father of two adult children: Kim from Marietta, GA, and Dan from Adrian, MI. Ian, Rowan, and Sophia are his grandchildren and they refer to him as Grandpa Mike.Mike enjoys all sports and is an avid college football fan. He loves to play golf, enjoys music, and plays guitar.Mike's free advice to parents and grandparents, Please read to the kids when they're young! Just 20-30 minutes per day can have a profound, positive impact on their overall academic progress.