Roxy Rogers: Your Destiny Is Calling

by Emily Siskin-Toy

What happens when a young girl with a Hall of Fame baseball pedigree breaks the family mold and follows her dream to become a soul singer? Roxy Rogers: Your Destiny Is Calling, a picture book recommended for ages 6 - 9, lets children see their families will love them just the same when they pursue their true passions in life.


Everybody in Roxy's family--from her great-grandpa (played with Lou Gehrig), to her grandpa (played with Jackie Robinson), to her mother (super-star college softball player), to her father (was a Los Angeles Dodger), to her sister (won a Gold Medal for Team USA Softball, and so on)--famously played ball, and Roxy is next in line. The only problem is that Roxy dreams of singing soul music like her idol, Aretha Franklin! A historical addendum provides information about the Hall of Fame baseball players who turn up in the book, as well as Aretha Franklin, the queen of soul music. Additionally, a fun treasure hunt for clues about Roxy's true destiny runs throughout the book, giving readers an enhanced, interactive experience.

Genres: Childrens

32 pages, Hardcover

First published August 24, 2014

About the author

We all have a true passion in life, but it’s oftentimes something entirely the opposite of what we pursue. Of course, I am talking about career pursuits, not LOVE--just making sure we are on the same page! I always dreamed of writing children’s books, but initially chose a more conventional writing career path for a good, long while. Then the inspiration for Roxy Rogers: Your Destiny Is Calling came along, and pointed me in the direction I knew I wanted to go. While coaching my daughter’s youth softball and basketball teams, I eventually came to realize that the world of sports was a love of mine, not my daughter’s, who dreamed of becoming a world-famous singer. Oh, the irony of it all! The plot of the story was right in front of me, and I cultivated the surrounding details from my lifetime of love for the rich history of Major League Baseball and my daughter’s love of music.

Reviews

[Julie Grasso · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roxy Rogers is very good at baseball. It's in her genes. Every one of her relatives has a wonderful story of their glory days on the baseball field, with some of the biggest names in the business. Roxy loves playing baseball, but being a baseball star is not the dream she holds in her heart. It is the dream of family members.

Roxy longs to sing like Aretha Franklin and the other soul sisters of the past, but she doesn't have the heart to hurt her families feelings. Well, when the day of the big game arrives, a very curious problem presents. The singer set to sing The Star Spangled Banner is caught in traffic. The announcer heard one of the players singing earlier today, and he asks would that player come forward and sing for them. Roxy leaps at the chance. She has her moment in the sun, and her entire family learns of Roxy's true passion in life.

This was a lovely story, about a young girl who feels pressure to be exactly what her family expects her to be. When an opportunity presents itself, Roxy doesn't hide her true desire, she lets it shine, and in turn, allows her true self to be revealed to her family.

I thought this was a delightful story, and I truly loved style of the illustrations. I would highly recommend this to children ages 3-6.

[Cyndi Flores · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet and lovely story, that all kids can learn from. I loved this story. Roxy's entire family and entire line of family plays baseball, and she thinks she has to play baseball too, but she wants to sing, She ends up finding out that she is truly loved and she can do what makes her happy, and it is all good to be different, a lesson I think adults and kids can all learn from that we can except and love people for what ever they want to be or who they are, great lesson, and this story is great overall too.

[Bonnie Rediske- · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book. Not only does it give little girls the boost to follow their dreams, but it teaches them some very important historical figures in a way that is not over bearing. The illustrations are great. I would say this book could be for girls ages 4- 10. My four year old was completely hooked!

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book free for an honest review which I've given. This review originally appeared on my blog Christy's Cozy Corners.

Though Roxy comes from a very athletic family who love playing baseball and softball, Roxy has a different dream. She's afraid to go after it though since she thinks her family expects her to play softball. She loves her family and likes softball, but she loves singing. It's all she's ever dreamed of doing. And when the national anthem singer can't make it to Roxy's game, she gets her chance to show everyone what her true passion is...singing.

Roxy Rogers is a wonderful little story that shows kids that it's okay to like something different than your family likes. It's okay to be different than they are. Even if you are good at something, if it's not your passion you won't be truly happy. Thankfully, Roxy finds out that her family cares for her and loves her and respects her choice to follow her dream to be soul singer rather than follow the family's passion for baseball. I love the illustrations and hidden clues throughout the book. The story is very inspiring, and I love the little facts included at the end of the book. I think it will appeal to both girls and boys and will help them understand that they should follow their heart's calling.

[Lisa Katz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meet Roxy Rogers, a young girl with a family full of hall of fame baseball players. While Roxy might have been born to play ball, her dream is to sing. She wants to do something different but she doesn’t know how to tell her family. She is afraid they won’t understand. Her destiny is not baseball.

This is a wonderful story that speaks about following your passions in life. Roxy Rogers has the courage to not follow in the footsteps of her parents or grandparents in the world of baseball but rather go into the entertainment business as a famous songstress.

The illustrator has created whimsical and colorful illustrations that bring this story to life. As Roxy believes in her dreams, the colors transform on the pages and get brighter and bolder. They enhance her dream to sing and show her passion for song, not baseball.

The author has included some great historical baseball facts at the end of the story along with a game of hidden clues to keep kids going back to read the story over and over again!

A fabulous 5 star book recommended for ages 4-8. The author makes the message loud and clear, it is important to do what makes you happy in life! Kudos to the author for creating a wonderful storybook for children.

[Tonja Drecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roxy is doomed to be a baseball/softball player. After all, every single family member she can think of was a famous player themselves at one time or another. They say that playing ball is in her blood. But that's not what she wants. Just like many kids, Roxy doesn't want to disappoint her family, so she keeps her real dreams to herself - a fact I found very true to life. After all, what kid is willing to disappoint their entire family?

The illustrations are well done, and the story telling itself is direct to the point (if not perhaps a bit too brief). It's perfect for a short read-a-loud. I especially enjoyed the mention of famous baseball players, and the added tidbits at the end of the book about them, which is sure to interest small baseball player gurus. As an extra bonus, small surprises are hidden in the pictures, which kids are asked to go back and discover when the story comes to an end. This alone guarantees to grab kids' interest.

Summed up, this is a sweet story kids can relate to with a heart-warming ending. Kids will enjoy it.

I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[LAWonder10 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This fast paced tale beginning from Roxy’s infancy through elementary age years, was a very fun book. Roxy was a girl who had exceptional talented in baseball, from a very young age.Everyone centered on this and encouraged her to continue to succeed with this talent. Other talents and dreams of hers went unnoticed…until one day opportunity “knocked”!

This great story is completed with a variety of illustrations that are adeptly done by Illustrator Brian C Krumm. The text quickly and smoothly flows from one scene to the next. It ends with questions causing the reader to search what he/she just read to find the answers plus it introduces additional trivia & questions.

This was very well done, entertaining and educational. However, I felt it went a little too quickly and came to a sudden predictable halt. It just felt too abrupt. Other than that it was a great story. It is recommended for ages 4 – 8. It is a great early reading book.

My review of this book offers a Four Stars rating.

*I was sent this book in exchange for an honest review, of which I have given.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book isn't just for kids really but for everyone trying to live up to other's expectations. Although this book may be a little too deep and serious for the really young ones, it makes for a great read for kids in the school age. I believe that kids should be encouraged to pursue what they want in life (and let them be until they actually reach adulthood)!

Story aside, the illustrations in the book was really done well. I especially love the special details in the drawings which I'd rather not spill so it would remain a surprise to those who haven't read this book.

Highly recommended!

[Tennille · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roxy Rogers is an amazing baseball player, in fact she comes from a family of baseball legends. Of course she will follow family tradition, or will she? Roxy has her own dream to be a singer but she doesn't want to disappoint her family. What will she do?

Roxy continues playing baseball until destiny steps in, the singer of the Star Spangled Banner is caught in traffic and Roxy is asked to step up to the plate....will she hit it out of the park or will she bench herself and miss her big chance?

[Ashley Howland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Young Roxy Rogers is destined to be a star softball player, it’s in her blood. Softball is not in her heart, Roxy loves to sing. Can she break the traditions of her family and write her own destiny?
This book is a great one for kids who like to dream. It spreads the message of being yourself and following your own path. Kids will enjoy Roxy Rogers.

[Kay LaLone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roxy was always told, she was born to play softball. There was something her family didn't know. Roxy loved to sing. Good story. Your destiny doesn't mean you have to do one thing. Roxy was good at softball and singing.

[Arlene Mullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! The art work was beautiful and the story is amazing.
My boys loved the story.
It was short enough to keep them interested. The story had such an amazing message. I especially liked that the little girl was supported for her decision.
It is definitely a must read.

[Esperanza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roxy Rogers: Your Destiny Is Calling

This story features a brave young girl Roxy Rogers that must come to terms with the choices that she is making for her life, all to be done without disappointing her extended family members. Roxy the main character is able to relate to her family in all that they want for her, yet has never really felt that she has a calling to do what they want. Roxy Rogers really wants to make her parents, grandparents and great grandfather happy about her choices in life. Although she feels good about her family there is just something that is not right with the choices that she is making in her life. Yet, she candidly must try to figure out when the best time to come forth and explain her feelings to her family, about this heart breaking dilemma that she has.


The author helps her young readers to see how important it is for a child to have the support of family in life endeavors, no matter what the situation may be. Family is presented in this book as an essential predictor in how a child may feel about themselves. The author mainly addresses the needs of children having a sense of self confidence. She also helps her readers to grasp the idea of making choices yet including the extended family members in pertinent decisions.

My homeschool students were delighted to hear this story and they also enjoyed the historical addendum and the spectacular treasure hunt for clues. My son loves hunting items down in pictures and this made this book all the more fun for our family. The bright colors and lovely illustrations are a perfect match for the storyline. The illustrator does a fabulous job of bringing the entire family in this book to life. The vibrant colors help the readers to feel the excitement beaming from Roxy Rogers! We recommend this book for children and adults alike!

[Barbara Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roxy Rogers comes from a baseball family. From the day she was born, her family groomed her to be a talented ball player. Everyone in the family, great grandparents, grandparents, and parents had been star baseball players. Her great grandfather had played with Joe DiMaggio, grandpa was on the team with Jackie Robinson, and her dad played with the Los Angeles Dodges in the 1980’s. Her grandmothers played professional ball and even her older sister Morgan had already played on an Olympic team. But Roxy had a passion that she enjoyed more than playing baseball; she wanted to be a soul singer like her idol, Aretha Franklin.

Roxy hummed while she walked in the opening day parade with her team. When the singer slated to sing the National Anthem at her game gets stuck in traffic, she is invited to sing. The crowd goes wild and Roxy realizes that she has another real talent. To their credit, her family cheers her on. It seems like Roxy might be breaking the mold of family tradition.

This book is executed well. The illustrations are charming. I like the game at the end challenging readers to find the 48 musical clues, and the background information on names of famous baseball players mentioned in the story. Encourages children to act independently and be true to their passions, even when others expect something else. Good choice for early readers, aficionados of baseball, and admirers of strong

[Erika Messer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think every parent should read this book WITH their children! Roxy is a kid that is under pressure to become what her family wants her to be and live a legacy that she is not sure she wants. The destiny that everyone seems to think is what she needs to do is to play baseball ... her dad and grandpa both played for pro baseball teams and so of course she MUST carry on that legacy. And even though she wants something different, she doesn't want to let her family down so she goes ahead with the plans, but when the day comes something happens and she is thrust into the spotlight in a whole new way and it becomes her NEW destiny, and one that makes her happy.

In today's society kids are held to such high standards - to go to colleges as a legacy, or become this or that and make big money - most parents give very little thought to what their child WANTS to do and even if they know they don't approve. So I do really believe that this book is one that parents should read and comprehend as well, maybe it would help them stop and think that what their child wants might be the best. I really enjoyed reading this and I am going to recommend it to all my friends with children :) I received a complimentary ebook to review

[Inderpreet Uppal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roxy Rogers likes to play baseball and loves to sing. This story has such beautiful illustrations, pretty images and sweet expressions making it a delight to read. The story unfolds and flows so perfectly with the pictures adding to the charm of the book. This is such an adorable tale about the cute little girl Roxy. Roxy and her whole family is drawn so beautifully and expressed in such lovely detail.
The story is a good lesson for children and parents to remember that any path chosen by us should be pressure free. We can excel in any sphere if we put our heart in it. This book shows effortlessly the importance of letting our child the path they wish to choose.
A child need not follow in the footsteps of their family and yet manage to shine. Roxy Rogers wins hearts and the love of family. Our children need space to grow and spread their wings, just like Roxy.
The book left me with a happy thought and a wide open future for our children. Pick it up today and read to your child.
Ask your child today, what does she/he want to be?
- See more at: http://inderpreetkaur.blogspot.in/#st...

[Judith Lloy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! One, I love baseball, so I love that the theme of this book is partly about baseball. I also love to sing. So naturally, that being the other theme totally had me from the start! I love that girls in baseball is so natural in this story that Roxy is actually expected to follow in her baseball loving family's footsteps. I love the historical references to real life examples of people who bravely helped change how people think simply by being themselves and doing what they loved. And I love that her family's legacy of instilling confidence in themselves and in Roxy made her brave enough to take advantage of following her dream. The pictures are awesome, vibrant and colorful, just like all of the people who grace the pages of Roxy's story, and of course, brilliant, like Roxy herself!!

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roxy Roger's: Your Destiny is Calling is a heartwarming story about a darling little girl who has big dreams.

When Roxy's baseball playing family realizes she's inherited the gene they encourage her to follow their paths, but is it the right one for Roxy?

This is such an inspiring story about pursuing your dreams even if they conflict with the dreams of others. By chance Roxy's family discovers her desire to perform on stage and their great love for her has them cheering her on.

Roxy Roger's: Your Destiny is Calling also introduces readers to a little bit of baseball history and some of the great players of the game. This well written tale is filled with fun and engaging illustrations and shares a special message with its readers.

I highly recommend picking up a copy.

[Deitre · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could hear the soulful sound of Roxy through this cute read. Roxy is talented. She’s a softball player like no other. Her family nurtures that talent and skill and encourages Roxy to continue playing to the best of her ability. Little did they know that Roxy, had another hidden talented that was aching to appear. She wasn’t really sure if she could release it. But with any talent and passion it makes its appearance when you least expect it. Roxy is given the opportunity to showcase her soulful voice and then the rest is history! The writing and illustrations are perfect. I could truly see myself reading this picture book with a group of little ones huddled around me eager to learn if Roxy will be able to be more than a softball player.

[Lynda Dickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roxy Rogers is destined to become "the greatest softball player to ever play the game!" It's in her blood, her family tells her; they're all baseball stars. But Roxy has a dream of her own. She wants to be a singing star. Will her dream ever come true?

This is a delightful tale told with a touch of humor. The illustrations by Brian C. Krümm are absolutely wonderful. There is a hide-and-seek game to play while you are reading, and the story is followed by notes on some of the historical figures mentioned throughout the book.

An inspirational and informative book for kids of all ages, whether they are baseball fans or not.

I received this book in return for an honest review.

[Bookroomreviews.com leonardo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book for young readers.Very bright and colorful illustrations by Brian C. Krumm and the author Emily Siskin-Toy did a good job with the story and getting the point across.The end of the book is interesting the author ask you to go back through the book and find the clues of Roxy's true love. ( that her clueless parent obviously couldn't find). There is also a few pages about certain historical figures mentioned on the book.
For a more in depth review visit
www.bookroomreviews.com/2014/11/03/ro...

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of the book to help facilitate my review.

Roxy has been groomed since she was little to play baseball. She comes from a long line of famous baseball players, so it’s expected of her. However, her dream is to sing. Will she ever be able to make her dream come true?

The story is very cute and has great illustrations. I also love the mentions of baseball history and how it was tied into the story. The story also has a great lesson: never give up on your dreams. Just because something is expected for you, doesn’t mean it’s right for you.

Overall, my daughter really enjoyed it and it is definitely worth reading.

[Brooke Blogs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Roxy Rogers: Your Destiny is Calling by Emily Siskin-Toy is a story that teaches us it's okay to be who you are! Roxy comes from a long line of baseball and softball players, and is always told it is her destiny to be a star softball player. But Roxy has a secret: her passion is singing. An opportunity presents itself for Roxy to shine in a way she never thought she'd be able to in front of her family.

This was a great story that teaches a wonderful lesson. I enjoyed the story, the message, and the beautiful illustrations. This is a story my kids enjoyed as well.

I received an electronic version in exchange for an honest review. My opinion was not influenced in any way.

[Jenn Gill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is fantastic! Often children keep from sharing their desires for free of rejection or disappointment from their loved ones. This book teaches kids that even though your loved ones may want you to share their passions, they will still love and support you even if your dreams are different from theirs.

I would recommend this book for ages 3-8. While I agree that it is written perfectly for school-aged children who are starting to read on their own, the simple sentences and full-page illustrations also made it fun for my three year old daughter and I to read together.

[Susanne Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have just read the most adorable book by Emily Siskin-Toy. It's all about Roxy, a little girl with an amazing talent that is to take her to her destiny. However, Roxy has a hidden talent that she knows she must pursue... Only 16 pages long, and with the most wonderful, dynamic illustrations by Brian C Krumm, this book will win over readers of all ages and deliver a powerful life message at the same time.

[Deitre · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could hear the soulful sound of Roxy through this cute read. Roxy is talented. She’s a softball player like no other.

To read the rest of the review, simply follow the link: http://www.aleisuremoment.com/2014/11...

[Frelisa Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roxy Rogers Your Destiny Is Calling by Emily Siskin-Toy Illustration by Brain C. Krumm

I enjoy reading a book that has the main character followed her dream. I recommend this book. It's wonderfully told with historical information woven into the story. It has a quick history lesson included after the end of the story.


Ages Recommend: 6-8

[Peggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even thought you may think no one will support you and the dream you have, you will never know until you go after it! And that's just what Roxy does! Great book for kids!

*Received for an honest review*