Nate Rocks The Boat
Karen Pokras Toz
Nate Rocks,#2
Grand Daisy Press
April 21, 2012
142 pages
Amazon|BN
provided by author
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5/5 Books

With fourth grade finally winding down, 10-year-old Nathan Rockledge is looking forward to a fun and relaxing summer at home with his friends. That is, until his mom decides he has to go to overnight camp with his annoying older sister. When his best friend Tommy decides to tag along, Nathan thinks maybe his summer won’t actually be so bad. After all, he does get to be away from his mom’s awful cooking for an entire six weeks.

Amongst Color War competitions, a flaky counselor, and a bully named “No-Neck,” Nathan turns to his trusty sketchpad, transforming himself into Nate Rocks: 10-year-old extraordinaire. His speedboat ready for action, Nate saves the day time and again from the perils of floods, snakes, ghosts, and even the most wanted criminals.

Join Nathan, Tommy, Abby, and a whole new cast of characters as Nate Rocks once again proves nothing can hold him back in this second book of the Nate Rocks series.

Author Karen Pokras Toz

About The Author:
Karen Pokras Toz is a writer, wife, and mom. Karen grew up in the small town of Orange, Connecticut and graduated from Ithaca College with a degree in Finance. She also attended the University of Richmond, where she studied law and business, receiving both a JD and an MBA. Karen is a member of The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Karen lives in Montgomery County, PA with her husband and three children.

Connect With The Author:
Website | Facebook | Twitter

My Review:
A definite praise worthy middle grade read! Growing up, I loved reading books like Sweet Valley High, R.L. Stine and the likes. But, now that I am a mom, those books have died down, and plus, I have boys who really wouldn’t be interested in Sweet Valley High. That said, I’m always looking for new books for them, but when I look, I look for ones that can captivate me, as the mom and fellow reader. Ms. Toz’s book does that! It’s very entertaining and laughable at times, bringing the reader in a close friendship with Nate.

Nate’s dreading his summer….he’s going away to camp. Sure, his friend Tommy will be there. But, his sister is going. How can he ever go and fit in with kids he doesn’t know, especially when his big sister, who knows his weak points, will be there? Through Ms. Toz’ writing, she creates an easily understood story for kids about fitting in, trying your hardest and making the best of any situation.

Nate finds himself drifting off into daydreams where he is the hero. He can conquer bullies, battle the problems of the world, and he comes out on top of the world every time. He’s got himself in some quirky situations, but using his imagination, he’s always rocking the boat and succeeding!

If you have any child, boy or girl, in 3-7 grade, this book is a must have on their shelves! It’s humorous and entertaining, and filled with important messages for the kiddos today. As an adult, I found myself quickly swept away in Nate’s imaginative adventures, and completely captivated the entire story. Definitely a 5 Book worthy story! I am anxious to go back and read Nate’s first adventurous book, as well as any others that Ms. Toz creates. Kids will love Nate!

Karen will be awarding a $25 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour(click banner to follow!)