Ariana Treasure: The Missing Book (Jacqueline de Rose-Ahern, illus Karen Erasmus, Wombat)

Ariana Treasure: The Missing Book is the first in a new series for beginner readers by Jacqueline de Rose-Ahern. Ariana’s family own the Treasure Chest, a local thrift shop filled with second-hand treasures. When a new kid, Alex, accidentally purchases a special book that wasn’t for sale, Ariana and her mum must figure out how to get it back. What follows is a charming story about kindness, problem-solving and making new friends. The book encourages readers to consider different points of view while striking a balance between the guidance of grown-ups in helping work through challenges and the agency of young people in showing empathy and solving problems on their own. This quiet but powerful story will appeal to those who love op-shopping, family heirlooms and secret messages. Karen Erasmus’s illustrations complement the well-paced story and enhance understanding of the text. The author and the illustrator have created a cohesive visual narrative that is suitable for fans of Sally Rippin, Jacqueline Harvey and Cassy Polimeni. The short chapters, large font and prominent illustrations throughout Ariana Treasure: The Missing Book make it a great choice for newly independent readers aged six and up.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Karys McEwen is a librarian, an author and the current vice president of CBCA Vic Branch. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

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