TREASURE

A child and a crow both collect shiny objects but find a way to share in this picture book that doubles as an early reader.

The story begins with a single word, “child,” in a large easy-to-read, sans-serif type. Its accompanying illustration shows a black-haired, beige-skinned figure gazing at several trinkets the child has placed on a stone wall outdoors. The story continues with soft, full-color illustrations, each accompanied by a single word. The overall effect is one of friendliness and encouragement as well as illustrative engagement, as readers will no doubt peruse the illustrations seeking out the host of treasured objects—buttons, sea glass, coins, a thimble—they contain. A crow enters the storyline, and the crow also collects shiny objects. When it takes a treasured button from the stone wall, the child is forlorn. That night a storm dislodges the crow’s nest, and the crow’s shiny collection tumbles to the ground. The crow finds and returns the child’s treasured button, and the grateful child offers a trinket to the crow, who takes it—and leaves a feather in return. Author/illustrator Dwyer exhibits remarkable skill in creating this story of friendship and sharing, with its minimal text and well-designed illustrations. Early readers will hone their skills, while the accessible, uncluttered illustrations invite them to use their imaginations to make the story their own.

Simple words and accessible, engaging illustrations combine to offer a surprisingly nuanced story.