About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the concept of true wealth or beginning to question the morality of rules versus the value of kindness. It is a perfect selection for the child who is naturally spirited or rebellious but possesses a hidden heart of gold. The story follows a band of twelve outlaws who embark on a quest for the ultimate treasure, only to find that their interactions with the people they meet change their perspective on what is worth keeping. Paul Biegel uses the classic folktale structure to explore themes of redemption, empathy, and the joy found in giving rather than taking. While the characters start as 'villains,' their gradual softening is handled with humor and a light touch that makes the moral lessons feel like a natural discovery rather than a lecture. It is an ideal bridge between early chapter books and more complex middle-grade novels, offering a timeless adventure that celebrates the transformative power of a kind deed.
