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The Most Valuable Treasure

by Sally H. Taylor
Illustrated by the author



      In the small village everyone was happy to help their neighbors with whatever was needed.  But there was one house on the outskirts of the village that was a mystery.  The townfolk believed a wicked witch lived within the rickety old home.

One day, a young boy decided to play by a well near the old house.  He lost his balance and fell into the dark, murky water.  He feared that no one would find him.  Then, out of nowhere, the bucket began to rise and and he found he could again see the light of day.  He was so grateful over being rescued that he wanted to thank his savior personally; but when he arrived at the top there was no one there.

He ran home and told the story to his mother and father.  Out of gratitude, his mother decided to bake a loaf of her best bread and present it to the owner of the old rickety house.  When she knocked, there was no answer, so she left the bread outside the door.  She knew that bread alone was not enough to show appreciation for saving her child’s life, so she returned with some of her best jam.

The mother was still not convinced that she had shown the old woman enough gratitude, so she came up with the idea of enlisting the help of her neighbors to repair and clean the old lady’s home.

The old woman was delighted at the outpouring of support.  As the dirt was removed and a clean smell entered her home, she knew she had found friends who cared.  To show her thanks, she rewarded each with a great treasure of coins.  She encouraged all to take what they needed to help them with their own needs.  In this one instance she learned that the greatest treasure was that of true friendship.

Once again, Sally H. Taylor has breathed life into her story through the beautifully illustrated characters that make the story a magical experience.  Working together, her talents as an artist and a writer make for one unforgettable story, sure to be an all time favorite with your child.  Very highly recommended.

The Book

Outskirts Press
March 28, 2008
Paperback
1432718215 / 978-1432718213
Children's Fiction, Ages 9-12
More at Amazon.com
Excerpt
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The Reviewer

Suzie Housley
Reviewed 2008
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