“Sheehan’s smoothly paced text contains a pleasant mixture of adventure and repetition characteristic of the genre. The likable king and queen convey the value of self-satisfaction.”
—Publishers Weekly
Queen Gwendolyn has everything she could possibly desire—beautiful dresses, golden crowns, and servants who wait on her every need—but she is bored, and nothing the king suggests can lift her spirits. Venturing out of the castle, Gwendolyn visits a peasant’s cottage and a jeweler’s shop. As she discovers the joy of making beautiful things with her own hands, the queen comes up with an idea that will ensure that she is never bored again.
Illustrated by whimsical pastel drawings, this book sweeps readers up into Gwendolyn’s journey. Through her story, children will understand the importance of personal development and individual expression. As Gwendolyn learns, all the riches in the world cannot compare to the treasure of experiencing independence and sharing one’s gifts.
About the Author
Patty Sheehan is a parent-educator and psychotherapist residing in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She holds a master’s degree in education and offers self-esteem and whole-language training for teachers and creative-writing workshops for children. She is a popular public speaker and group counselor available for speaking engagements, conferences, and other appearances.
About the Illustrator
Claudia Bumgarner-Kirby is a freelance artist living in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She received her bachelor of fine arts degree from the University of New Mexico. Bumgarner-Kirby owns and manages a small used bookstore with her husband.
GWENDOLYN’S GIFTS
By Patty Sheehan
Illustrated by Claudia Bumgarner-Kirby
JUVENILE FICTION / General
32 pp. 8 1/2 x 11
31 color illus.
Ages 5-8 Grades K-3
ISBN: 9780882898452