The Silver Box

Nine year old Kathy must spend long months in the hospital in an uncomfortable cast, with the hope she will one day walk. She longs to have the Silver Box from which her grandmother seems to pull stories, but instead, her Grandmother sends different gifts. Each offers a magical experience for Kathy and her stuffed dog, her closest companion. Kathy rides the Little Painted Horse to bring spring flowers to the countryside, accompies the Red China Hen to the land of stories--some of them a little frightening, and discovers the mysteries of the Music Box House. Other adventures challenge and present the young patient with experiences and lessons. In the end, the Silver Box provides a memorable, victorious conclusion. This story is written with humor, affection, and a memorable combination of magic and the reality of a long hospital stay. The reading level suggests that this short novel is a wonderful read-aloud for ages 5-10, and is a good read for grade levels 3-7.