Jason and the Golden Coin

Book excerpt: Eight-year-old Jason isn't happy at all with his birthday present from his aunt. Why would she give him an old, ugly stuffed animal? Jason is very disappointed and later that day, he finds an old mysterious coin wedged in a crack of his bedroom floor. On the coin, is a figure that begins to speak to Jason. Czar is a wise man who regales Jason with fascinating stories of historical significance, including ones of his family from several generations past, as well as a very important family secret. What connection does the coin have to his aunt's gift and what lessons does Jason learn about the true value of giving? This charming tale, based loosely on real-life events, expertly captures the importance of valuing friendship and family above the temporal and tangible. Wheatley's Jason and the Golden Coin incorporates exciting stories about past wars and revolutions with important concepts about gratitude, respect, and forgiveness. Young readers will eagerly anticipate the next sequel to Jason's adventures. Monika Rossa Wheatley is a writer and artist.