First published in 1974 by Aetheneum Books for Young Readers, Everybody Needs a Rock by Byrd Baylor, with illustrations by Peter Parnall, is a timeless children’s book about the simple joy of finding the perfect rock. The young narrator shares ten thoughtful rules for choosing a rock that feels just right—a special friend shaped by nature and personal connection rather than material value.

This charming story invites readers to slow down, use their senses, and practice patience as they search for a rock with the right weight, color, and shape. At its heart, the book is a gentle lesson in mindfulness, encouraging an appreciation for the natural world and the small wonders it offers.