
Reach for this book when your child is facing a major life transition, particularly a move away from a beloved home, school, or relative. This story addresses the heavy heart that comes with saying goodbye while providing a creative framework for emotional resilience. By following siblings Gracie and Jake as they move from San Francisco to a new home far away, the narrative validates that it is okay to feel sad and miss what you are leaving behind. Written in lyrical verse, the book is ideal for children ages 4 to 8. It moves beyond the logistics of moving to focus on the emotional 'treasures' we carry with us. Parents will find it a gentle tool for starting conversations about change, Chinese-American heritage, and the enduring bond between grandchildren and grandparents. It beautifully illustrates that while our surroundings change, the love of family remains a constant source of strength.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewThe book deals with the emotional distress of moving and separation from a primary caregiver (Nai Nai). The approach is realistic, focusing on personal agency and family connection. The resolution is hopeful and grounded in the continuity of family love.
An elementary-aged child who is prone to 'collecting' things as a way of self-soothing, or a child currently struggling with the 'long goodbye' of a relocation.
Read cold. The verse format makes it a quick pre-read, but the emotional resonance is high, so be prepared for a snuggle. A parent might see their child clinging to an old toy, refusing to pack their room, or expressing fear that they will be forgotten by those they leave behind.
Younger children (4-5) will focus on the tangible items in the treasure boxes. Older children (7-8) will appreciate the poetic structure and the complex feeling of being sad and happy at the same time.
Unlike many 'moving' books that focus on the new house, this one focuses on the poetic preservation of the old life. The story beautifully illustrates the Chinese concept of 'Double Happiness,' showing how it's possible to hold onto old loves while embracing new beginnings. """
Siblings Gracie and Jake are preparing for a cross-country move. They must say goodbye to their home in San Francisco, including the iconic sights and, most painfully, their grandmother, Nai Nai. To cope with the transition, they begin collecting small, symbolic items (a marble, a feather, a stone) to keep in 'treasure boxes.' These items represent the memories they want to carry with them. The story follows their journey to a new house and their eventual realization that 'double happiness' comes from holding onto old loves while embracing new beginnings.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.