“What’s in the little boxes?” the little girl asks her grandfather. “My diary” he says. “Pick one and I will tell you the story.” So begins this picture book by Newbery Medalist Paul Fleischman, based on the author’s discovery of a matchbox diary many years ago.
The grandfather unfolds a family history for the child as she opens each box and discovers little mementos that trigger memories . . . an olive pit, a bottle cap, a fish scale. Readers will be eager to hear with her what story the next box holds. Fleischman’s masterful storytelling is supported by the golden illustrations of Bagram Ibatoulline. A book to be savored by all ages. Ages 6 and up. (Candlewick)