Customer Reviews

A Treasure Beyond Measure

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This is a modern retelling of Jesus' parable found in Matthew 13:44 (quoted at the back of the book in NKJV). Author Melody Carlson uses upbeat rhyming verse to describe a man named Fred who finds a treasure map in an old carved box. He studies the map to decipher where this island must be, then quits his job and sells his house. He buys a big boat for his journey and packs it with more than enough food and stuff. Fred goes off to find his treasure.

Unfortunately, he encounters a big storm at sea. Fred, his dog and his treasure map wash up on an island, but it's the wrong island. He works and works (for the tourist industry) until he has enough money to buy a boat. It's not as big or as grand as the last, but it's good enough to get him to the right island. He is so excited when he finally gets there! But then someone announces that this is his land. Fred trades the man all that he has for a small spot on the beach. He digs all through the night until, finally, he finds his treasure.

Illustrator Steve Bjorkman brings his signature style to these pictures. They are colorful, whimsical and full of fun little details.

WHAT I LIKE: It's a great story! There aren't enough books about Jesus' parables, in my humble opinion. This one does a beautiful job relaying a story today's kids can relate to. I also greatly appreciate the Scripture being given with reference.

WHAT I DISLIKE: The text doesn't say anything about Heaven. That's the point of Jesus' parable, yet it's not mentioned in this book until the quoted Scripture at the back. That's the only "big" dislike, but there are two "little" dislikes. The rhyme is forced in some spots interrupting the flow. Also, I usually really like Steve Bjorkman's illustrations, but some of these are too sketchy for me. They appear unfinished.

OVERALL RATING: Good

Tanya -- Christian Children's Book Review

A Treasure Beyond Measure is a delightful contemporary version of one of Jesus' parables on the Kingdom of Heaven. From Matthew 13:44, "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it, he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field." The story is told in rhyme and takes children on a journey with an ordinary guy named Fred who discovers a treasure map. This sparks an adventure where Fred eventually gives up all he has to seek the treasure - and possibly gains something precious of immeasurable worth. Though definitely engaging for younger children (ages 3 - 6), it's a fun and charming story with amusing, cartoon-like pictures that most everyone will enjoy - at least my multi-age brood did!