The Woods family lives high in Appalachia where crops are puny but where the local rocks--when put in people's pockets-- make good ballast in a wind, getting polished in the process. Some foolish, fancy city people provide an unexpected bonanza by purchasing the well-rubbed rocks--until honest Father Woods points out just how easy rocks are to find. Still, the ones that haven't been previously pocketed just aren't the same.... The authors, both experienced storytellers, recount their tall tale with dry understatement that makes it all the funnier, as do Goffe's lively, wickedly satirical illustrations. A subtle but beguiling message about value, packaged in an offbeat, entertaining tale. (Picture book. 4-10)
