The Book of Gold

Reviewed by: Amy McInerney - Falmouth Elementary School, Falmouth, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: December 12, 2017

Review

A gorgeous picture book, with an equally important message, The Book of Gold should be shared with every child. Isaac Gutenberg is a young boy in 1935 who shows little interest in anything. Born to parents who love books, they try to tempt their son by bringing him to the New York Public Library. After an unsuccessful visit during which Isaac grows bored of the room full of books, the young family visits an interesting store. After the shopkeeper shares the legend of the Book of Gold with Isaac, his furious search for the book that holds every answer to all questions begins. His search leads him to libraries, shops, and all over the world, and his lust for a material item gradually transforms into a curiosity and love for knowledge. The final scene of the book is powerful, as an elderly Isaac passes down the legend to a bored youngster pouting in the New York Public Library. This book will surely be beloved by librarians, teachers, and parents and is a recommended read-aloud for back-to-school lessons and introductions to research lessons. Enchanting illustrations will mesmerize young readers, as the theme will spark a curiosity within them. A gorgeous love letter to the power of books, The Book of Gold is recommended for every library, every classroom, and every home. Recommended as a Cream of the Crop book.

Overall Book Score: excellent