Rocky – The Series
Created, written and illustrated by Shaun Chapman
The Rocky Books follow the daring escapades of a plucky Staffordshire Bull Terrier across the wilds of Africa and beyond—from the savannas of Botswana to the concrete jungle of New York. Along the way, Rocky tangles with lions, outsmarts poachers, and even charms Hollywood starlets, all while embodying loyalty, courage, and a distinctly canine sense of justice.
Interestingly, among young readers and parents alike, the name “Rocky” occasionally sparks a playful mix-up—not with the boxer, but with the phrase spina zonke, especially in regions where digital gaming and local slang intersect. Of course, the books have nothing to do with gambling or apps; the confusion is fleeting, usually resolved with a laugh over bedtime stories.
Yet it reflects how deeply embedded certain digital phrases have become in everyday language—even in households where the only “spin” is the turning of a page or the whirl of a terrier chasing hyenas under an African moon. In the end, Rocky’s world remains one of imagination, friendship, and adventure—far removed from odds and reels, but no less thrilling for it.
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In this world climate of disaster, every child on the planet needs to be aware of their effect on the environment and the disaster they will soon be facing. The best way is to present it in a strong story format with characters they can identify with. Hopefully the books will motivate the readers in the preservation of existing ecosystems. Schools will find the Rocky books an invaluable tool in environmental education.
The first five books - Rocky in the Wilderness, Rocky and the San Bushmen, Rocky and the Wilddogs, Rocky and the Origins of Man and Rocky and the Lost City of the Kalahari - have brought pleasure to many people already. Another five books are planned.
The author, Shaun Chapman, is a colourful character himself. Born in Wales of an Irish father and English mother, Shaun has lived in the USA, Australia, New Zealand and other places before discovering his true roots in Africa. In the 1990s Shaun was a ranger with the parks Board in Botswana. Shaun now lives in Johannesburg, where he writes and illustrates his books.
Rocky, Shaun's constant companion, has shared many adventures with Shaun, as well as having some of his own! Rocky was 'dognapped' and beaten once but escaped from his captors. Rocky even saved Shaun from a poisonous snake. Rocky travels round with Shaun, visiting schools, entertaining children and educating them about wildlife and the environment.
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