LitPick Review
Gianna is a treasure hunter, but she digs in historical records instead of dirt. She is in Mr. Williams' genealogy class, and she loves it, so she is thrilled when a girl in her class, Stephanie, asks for help finding out more about her family history for a school project. Gianna and Stephanie begin with asking her French grandmother a couple of questions. But the search seems to come to an abrupt halt just as it has begun because Stephanie's grandmother is very sick and is not allowed to talk to them much. She only tells them that there is a family book that can tell them all they need to know. There is one problem with this--no one knows where the book is. Now Gianna has a real treasure to look for. Will Gianna and Stephanie find the book before it is too late?
Opinion:
Gianna the Treasure Hunter is an engaging book that inspired me to think more about family history. It shows how important it is to talk to your older relatives before their stories are lost. It tells the story of a young girl who helps to unite a family when unity seems impossible. Stephanie’s grandmother’s story of immigration from France to America helps kids understand what it was like for their grandparents, great-grandparents, etc. Gianna the Treasure Hunter is best for ages 7-9 and would make a great read aloud. The French words are fun to say, and kids will learn new vocabulary while enjoying the book.