Everybody Needs a Rock by Byrd Baylor (1974) is an inspiring book in which the author invites readers to go “rock finding” by laying out ten rules for finding a “perfect” rock. In this way, the book encourages children to look closely, using all of their senses, whims, and personal preferences as they search for their rock. Teachers can take this idea further, using the book as a basis for an activity in which students describe the physical characteristics of various rocks and in the process hone their observation and communication skills and learn the value of making detailed assessments.