Maggie's Treasure

Maggie finds treasure wherever she goes. Whether it's a button, a feather or a shiny stone, she picks it up and takes it home. At first the neighbors and city workers are grateful to Maggie for cleaning up; the mayor even gives her an award. But over time Maggie's collection grows bigger and bigger, until it spills out of her house and garden in an unsightly mess. Her parents tell her "Enough treasure!" and eventually even Maggie realizes that something must be done. Finally, inspired by a bird outside her window, she finds a way to share her treasure that enchants and transforms the entire neighborhood.

Jon-Erik Lappano and Kellen Hatanaka, winners of the Governor General's Literary Award for Tokyo Digs a Garden, have created a stunning picture book about a child who turns her passion for collecting into a pleasure for her community.

When Maggie's treasure collection grows too big to manage, she finds a creative solution.

Praise for Tokyo Digs a Garden by Jon-Erik Lappano, illustrated by Kellen Hatanaka:

"A challenging 21st-century fable sure to spark discussions." - Kirkus Reviews

"A thing of beauty." - New York Times

"Thoughtful and imaginative, this modern-day fairy tale challenges readers to contemplate what they wish for their own world, and perhaps consider how they will bring it about." - School Library Journal

Jon-Erik Lappano is a person who stays up too late working on curious things, including writing books for children. His debut picture book, Tokyo Digs a Garden, was the winner of the Governor General's Literary Award. Maggie's Treasure, his second picture book, was inspired by his daughters' impressive ability to spot treasure. Jon-Erik lives in Stratford, Ontario, with his wife, three daughters, and a growing collection of things that glitter.

Kellen Hatanaka is a designer and illustrator who lives in Stratford, Ontario, with his family. He has written and illustrated Work: An Occupational ABC (an ALA Notable Children's Book) and Drive: A Look at Roadside Opposites. He also illustrated Tokyo Digs a Garden, winner of the Governor General's Literary Award.