THE JEWEL BOX BALLERINAS

A very rich, very indulgent woman cares so much for her material possessions, purchased only in quantities of two, that she has no love left for humanity. Her most glorious find, though, is a one-of-a-kind jewel box, which opens up to two beautifully costumed ballerinas. In spite of a warning that the dancers, ignored by the selfish sisters for whom they were made, will bring sadness to anyone who looks upon them, the woman falls under their spell. When kisses and new tutus fail to bring a smile to their face, they all set off on a grand journey to Alaska and Africa. When the ballerinas are lost in an African marketplace, the woman’s frantic and sorrowful search brings them to life and all find joy and happiness and even redemption. Juan’s acrylic-and-crayon artwork is glorious. From the haughty demeanor of the very rich to the exquisite details of the miniature dancers, from the snowscapes of Alaska to the heat of the African desert, Juan takes readers on a color-filled journey filled with humorous details. A lovely story to share in which greed is mightily vanquished by joie de vivre. (Picture book. 4-8)