At the end of a visit with his grammy, Hunter leaves a pile of stones on her front porch. When she asks what they're for, he replies that everyone knows what to do with a pile of stones. Indeed, everyone does seem to know, from the mail carrier, who uses one to hold down a letter so it isn't blown away by the wind, to a boy who wants to keep his wagon from rolling downhill. By the time Hunter returns to his grammy's house, only six small stones remain. Together, Hunter and his grammy figure out to do with the last of the pile.
Despite the bland title and repetitive and unnecessary use of the phrase "Of course" to draw the narrative together, this warm, engaging story is tailor-made for classroom discussion. Many children will enjoy suggesting unusual uses for the stones and, from there, ways to use other common items, such as sticks and paperclips. As the story continues, there are frequent places to stop and make predictions, especially at the end as Hunter and his grammy decide how to use the last of the pile. This would also make a lovely story to use outside the classroom -- especially for grandparents to share with their grandchildren.
EL -- ESSENTIAL. Reviewed by: Caryn
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