A Rover’s Story by Jasmine Warga

Middle Grade • Science Fiction • STEM • Adventure • Emotional Growth

Author: Jasmine Warga

Genre: Science Fiction

Recommended Ages: 8-12

Summary:

Meet Resilience, a Mars rover built to explore the unknown. Resilience (nicknamed “Res”) begins life in a NASA lab, surrounded by humans who teach, tinker, and care for him. As Res learns about the world, he also learns about emotions—something he wasn’t programmed for but begins to experience anyway.

Told partly from Res’s perspective and partly through letters from a young girl whose mother works on the mission, the narrative moves through launch, journey, and exploration, capturing the deep connection between humans and the machines they create. The story blends technical detail with heartfelt reflections, showing that bravery isn’t only human—and that curiosity can live in unexpected places.

My Thoughts:

As a future elementary school librarian, I love how A Rover’s Story by Jasmine Warga balances imagination with real scientific concepts. It feels both magical and grounded. Warga’s writing is clear and welcoming, perfect for readers who are exploring longer novels. I also appreciate how she creates emotional depth without overwhelming younger students.

Res’s journey is full of heart. His “voice” is curious, observant, and quietly funny—kids will adore him. The letter format adds warmth and creates a unique dual perspective that young readers can follow with ease. This is the kind of book I wish I’d had when I was younger: one that explores science through empathy, not just information.

Why This Book Matters:

A Rover’s Story stands out because it makes STEM feel personal. Jasmine Warga takes a scientific setting and turns it into an emotional journey that gently prompts young readers to consider:

• What does it mean to be alive?

• Can something non-human still care about others?

• How do courage and curiosity shape us?

• What is our place in the universe?

This book has the power to inspire future engineers, astronauts, dreamers, and storytellers.

Themes:

• Identity & Emotion — Res wrestles with feelings he shouldn’t have, raising thoughtful questions about consciousness and empathy.

• Courage & Exploration — The mission is full of unknowns, mirroring the brave leaps we take in our own lives.

• STEM & Curiosity — Science feels accessible and exciting, encouraging readers to wonder about how things work.

• Human Connection — Through letters and memories, the story highlights how our relationships—even with machines—shape who we become.

• Hope for the Future — A quiet but powerful thread: curiosity and kindness will guide the next generation.

Why this book is important to Diversity and Inclusion:

A Rover’s Story brings diversity to STEM-centered storytelling, both through its Iranian American author and its inclusive approach to science literacy. Warga introduces young readers to robotics, engineering, and space exploration through a narrative rooted in curiosity, hope, and emotional intelligence. Representation in STEM-themed books is crucial—especially for students who may not always see themselves as future scientists. By blending heartfelt storytelling with scientific themes, this book invites all children, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to imagine themselves as explorers, engineers, and creators.

Classroom Integration for A Rover’s Story by Jasmine Warga:

(Grades 3–6)

STEM Connections

• Discuss the Mars rovers (Sojourner, Spirit, Opportunity, Curiosity, Perseverance).

• Explore how robots are programmed to learn and “think.”

• Create student-designed “mission badges” for imaginary space missions.

Writing Activities

• Write a rover’s log entry from Mars.

• Compare Res’s emotional growth to a human character’s development.

• Students write letters (like the girl in the book) to someone they look up to.

Social-Emotional Learning

• Talk about bravery, curiosity, fear of the unknown, and perseverance.

• Discuss what makes someone (or something) “alive.”

• Explore the idea of caring for things that depend on us.

Librarian Reflection:

This is an ideal book for building STEM literacy through storytelling. Students who may not naturally gravitate toward science topics can still connect through the emotional narrative. In the library, this book pairs beautifully with displays on space, robotics, engineering, or curiosity. I can also imagine students writing their own “rover logs” or designing imaginary spacecraft after reading. Warga reminds us that stories can bridge content areas and help children see science as both creative and meaningful.