Jewel Box Ballerinas

Synopsis

"I'LL TAKE TWO!" That's what Bibi Branchflower says about everything. She has two houses, two hats (exactly alike), and two silly dogs. But she doesn't have a single friend. When she comes across a beautiful jewel box, of course she wants two of them. Though there's only one like it in all the world, inside two dancers spin. Perfect! The shopkeeper explains that the box is enchanted - all who look on the ballerinas will see sorrow in their faces. Soon Bibi becomes more concerned with her sad ballerinas than with worldly riches. What will make them happy? It is her love that finally transforms them into living, breathing, happy children - and gives Bibi two real friends.


From the Hardcover edition.

Children's Literature

This clever book tells the story of Bibi Branchflower, a woman so rich she just has to have two of everything. And she does, but what she does not have is a friend. Bibi spends all of her days pursuing the acquisition of things, in twos, of course. One day in a shop, Bibi discovers a jewel box that contains TWO beautiful twirling ballerinas with one drawback. They never smile. Bibi purchases the jewel box and tries her best to get them to smile. She takes them all over the world to cheer them, to no avail. One day, Bibi accidentally misplaces the jewel box. Well, the ending will bring smiles to everyone, as will the imaginative illustrations. It is so much fun to read about Bibi's adventures that adults as well as children will enjoy repeats. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger, Ph.D.