ROCKET RED

A rocker ant gets his chance to shine—and bring his music beyond the colony—in this insect-centered picture book about following a dream.

Red and the Lucky Bug Band dream of being famous, but Red’s mom, Queenie, doesn’t think their music will help the colony. “Mom, can’t you see how music feeds my heart and soul?” Red pleads. Queenie, more concerned with literal food, sends Red off to help haul a dropped burger. Before Red can reach it, though, he’s nearly stepped on! Even after Red makes his voice heard, the human dismisses him as just an ant—until the man spies Red’s guitar. With the help of his band and his friends to increase his volume, Red shares his music with the humans, and they pledge to invite the ants to future gatherings. The familiar plot structure mirrors other tales of misunderstood dreamers; e.g., Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who (1954). DaVeiga and Gibson’s puns steal the show, including Red’s favorite band, the Beetles, who play the song “Help!” Ram’s cartoon illustrations set a playful tone, giving the insects long hair to reflect their rocker sensibilities. The choice to give the human’s shoes eyes and a face as well is odd but doesn’t interfere with the story. Endnotes provide ant facts.

A charming, easy tale about making yourself heard.