The Treasure Box

Reviewed by: Kelley Goodfield - SAD # 55, Hiram, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 11, 2017

Review

In the midst of war, Peter and his father are forced to flee their home taking only a book in an iron box with them. As the journey becomes more and more difficult, Peter’s dad becomes ill and dies. Fellow passengers urge Peter to leave the iron box behind but he leaves his suitcase behind instead and takes the box with him. However, as the difficult journey continues, Peter realizes that he will never be able to carry the iron box over the mountains and buries the box by a tree where it will be “safe from bombs and fire.” Peter grows into a man and eventually feels it is safe to return to the tree where he buried the book. A little girl is looks on as he digs up the iron box and opens it. She is shocked that it is only a book as she expected to see a hidden treasure. Peter explains that the book is more valuable than rubies as it explains their heritage. Peter then brings the book back to the city where he used to live. They have built a new library and he places it back on the shelf. No specifics are necessary about the war or the specific refugees as this tale touches your heart about all those who have to flee their beloved country. The end papers appear to be collages of books that were destroyed in the fire, as do some of the illustrations throughout the book. This is a very powerful tale that needs to be shared with all ages.

Overall Book Score: excellent