ROSIE'S
DAY ON A
WARSHIP
A YOUNG ADVENTURER DISCOVERS THE COURAGE AND LEGACY OF WOMEN WHO SERVE OUR NATION
"This book made me tear up, happy tears of course.
Being a Naval Academy alumna, and having spent 7+ years as a Surface Warfare Officer, I am SO PROUD that Kristi and Natalie made this book come to life!
This will be a fine addition to anyone looking to explain the brief history of women serving in the U.S. Navy and sister branches throughout U.S. History to children. Once my son is a little older, I cant wait to show him the Flight I and IIA Arleigh Burke-class DDGs, a Ticonderoga-class CG, or Wasp-class LHD that my husband and I have proudly served on!"
- Amazon Review, 5/5 Stars
"I am a female Naval Officer and Naval Aviator with 20 years of service, and I am so thankful to see a children’s book that champions female service past and present. See one, and know that you can be one! I love this book shows future female warfighters that military service can be fun, interesting, and fulfilling. I highly recommend every young girl reads this book so she is aware of her limitless opportunities in service to her country. Yes she can!"
- Amazon Review, 5/5 Stars
About The Book
Rosie's Day On A Warship is an illustrated children's book about the history and impact of women in the U.S. military. When Rosie visits her mom, a Surface Warfare Officer in the U.S. Navy, she enjoys a day of discovery on her mom's warship. The story celebrates the courage, service, and legacy of women - across the military branches - that have helped shape our nation's history.
Recommended reading age: 2-9
PURCHASE HARDCOVER HERE
"One of the book’s greatest strengths is how it makes a complex environment feel approachable for kids. The descriptions of the ship, the crew members, and their daily responsibilities are explained in a way that is easy to understand without feeling overly simplified. Rosie’s excitement and curiosity help guide the reader naturally through each new experience — from exploring the massive deck to learning how sailors work together as a team." - Amazon Review 5/5 Stars
Meet Rosie!
Rosie is curious, observant, and excited to explore. As she spends the day on the Navy warship, Rosie starts to notice the stories behind the ship -- stories that connect the past, the present, and the future.
The name “Rosie” carries many layers of meaning, including a tribute to the iconic "Rosie the Riveter", whose call to strength and possibility continues to empower women — myself included — to step forward boldly.
"I read this with my 7-year-old son, who loves military history. He was hooked from the first few pages. The story kept his attention and sparked great questions." - Amazon Review, 5/5 Stars
"This is a great book for girls and boys the history and importance of women in the armed services. As an adult I even learned something! The illustrations are warm and inviting, and enjoyable for early readers."
- Amazon Review 5/5 Stars
"By showing Rosie’s pride in her mom’s service, the book encourages young readers, especially girls, to dream big and see themselves in roles of leadership and adventure.
Warm, educational, and empowering, Rosie’s Day on a Warship is a fantastic read for military families and for any child curious about ships, helicopters, cookies (!!) and the heroes who serve!" - Amazon Review 5/5 Stars
Special Foreword
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It’s an honor to share the news: Admiral Lisa Franchetti — the Navy's 33rd Chief of Naval Operations and the first woman in history to lead the U.S. Navy as CNO —wrote the foreword for Rosie’s Day on a Warship. Admiral Franchetti’s trailblazing service, courage, and resilience inspired this book honoring the amazing women who have served our nation. Her courage, character, and service light the way for the next generation of children who dream of serving something bigger than themselves.
"As a mom of a daughter, I’m always drawn to stories that combine real history with empowerment. This one does exactly that. It shows girls (and boys!) that women belong in every space — including aboard warships — and that leadership, service, and bravery aren’t defined by gender." - Amazon Review 5/5 Stars
"We picked up Rosie’s Day on a Warship by Kristi Bickel for my 8-year-old, and it was an instant hit. From start to finish, it’s engaging, positive, and full of heart.
What really stood out to us was the relationship between Rosie and her mom. The story does a beautiful job highlighting their bond while also giving an honest and inspiring look at women serving in the military. It’s not something you see often in children’s books, and it sparked some great conversations with my child afterward." - Amazon Review 5/5 Stars
An Epic Adventure
This adventure has been powered by an incredible community. Deepest of gratitude to:​
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My family for cheering me on every step of the way.
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Natalie Davidson — the amazing artist who brought Rosie and this dream to life.
- Allison Ward — dear friend, veteran, author (A Twist of Magic), and constant source of wisdom.
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Admiral Lisa Franchetti — the Navy’s 33rd CNO and the first woman to hold the role, whose servant leadership inspired this book.
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USNA Women, who remind me daily to lead boldly and authentically.
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Giselle T. S. — the wise-beyond her years designer behind this site.
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Siska Ott — friend and the talented artist who created this amazing poster.
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My military community — who understands the highs and lows of the military life.
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The author community — who has given advice and encouragement.
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And finally — ALL of the trailblazing women who inspired this story — and my own path to the Naval Academy and beyond.
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"I have a daughter, and I hope she, and all her girlfriends are surrounded by books and examples of powerful leaders and examples of service to country. This book gives another example of strong leaders, while helping children believe they can achieve their dreams. More books like this!!!"
- Amazon Review 5/5 Stars
I adore this story and it’s beautiful illustrations! The adventure is a “take your child” to work adventure that weaves through life in the modern day Navy while pulling in elements of our military’s history. My son was really excited at the end, looked at me and said, “that was SO good.” I love when kids feel inspired by story and this one really did it. Highly recommended.
- Amazon Review 5/5 Stars
Stronger Together.
About the Author
Kristi is a U.S. Navy veteran, United States Naval Academy graduate, and a former Surface Warfare Officer who once jumped into the deepest part of the ocean --- the Mariana Trench --- proving firsthand that you can do hard things. She's a passionate advocate for empowering girls and women through storytelling, mentorship, and representation. Kristi is also a proud mom of three amazing kids, a wife to an incredible husband, and a dog mom to two lovable golden doodles. Her debut children's book, Rosie's Day on a Warship, celebrates courage, a legacy of trailblazers, and serving something greater than yourself.​
Kristi Bickel
About the Illustrator
Natalie Davidson
Natalie is the talented artist who brought Rosie Day on a Warship to life. Several of Natalie's family members have served in the military, representing the Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Army, and she grew up as a military brat herself. She has been an artist her whole life, with a favorite pastime in portrait painting. Using those skills to help Rosie come alive has been a dream come true as she endeavors into the world of children's book illustrations.
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