Robberecht’s clever tale illuminates the consequences of telling a lie. When Sarah surreptitiously plays with her mother’s favorite necklace, she knows she’s disobeying the rules. Aghast when the jewelry breaks, Sarah submits to the impulse to hide her misdeed. Robberecht’s ingenious take on a guilty conscience manifests itself as little haranguing poltergeists that emerge with each fib from Sarah as she scrambles to cover up her mistake. Rather than making them menacing, Goossens creates benign little figures to populate the pages, who multiply exponentially along with Sarah’s mistruths. His oil paintings are a balance of levity and sincerity that invite young readers to sympathize with Sarah’s consternation. Ultimately, Sarah recognizes the importance of honesty and all is resolved. A lesson made humorous and accessible. (Picture book. 4-8)
