Storytelling is a unique way to reach children and share tools that can help them throughout life. Mason’s Greatest Gems is a recently published storybook about a little boy who finds a treasure in his back yard. His mother then likens the gemstone to virtues, and explains how we can all mine our own inner gems by “finding” and “polishing” these positive character traits. The book offers a memorable analogy that can be used again and again, plus there are fun activity pages to further explore the lessons shared in the book. Most importantly, the story reminds children and adults alike that we grow through life experiences and that every day we have opportunities to make choices to help ourselves as well as others. You can read more description about the story, see photos, and read about the authors on this page.
“We need more books like Mason’s Greatest Gems. The focus on positive virtues and comparing them to beautiful gems found deep within the earth is genius! This book would be great for both family bookshelves and classroom libraries.” – Maria Dismondy, award winning children’s book author of Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun: Having the Courage To Be Who You Are (and more!)
“This is one of the best children’s books I have ever read. I thought the book was exceptionally well written. The word choice is unique and descriptive. It is an engaging storyline for both the adult and the child, yet it provides a concrete way to teach an abstract concept–one that greatly benefit both the child and everyone with whom he or she interacts. My daughter is 9 and enjoyed it very much along with the printable downloads. As a special education teacher, I could see how this book would appeal to a wide variety of ages and apply to many different circumstances. It was apparent that much time, thought, love, and energy went into this beautiful book. The illustrations were also superb.” – Rachel Macy Stafford, New York Times bestselling author of Hands Free Mama: A Guide to Putting Down the Phone, Burning the To-Do List, and Letting Go of Perfection to Grasp What Really Matters!
“The lessons were powerful and accessible, and the illustrations were adorable. I am excited to share this with others!” – Dara Feldman, author of The Heart of Education, Maryland’s 2015 Mother of the Year, and award winning educator
“My daughter has already told her 8 year old cousin about the book and how he has rocks in his tummy called virtues. A little while later while in tears due to a misunderstanding and some unkind words she yelled: You need to polish you kindness rock a little better, it is too sharp today! I already love the book and the positive impact it has had for Josie.” – Jay, mother and Grade 2 teacher
“This is such a lovely book! The concept of virtues is explained in a way that is easy to understand for children, and inspires them to look for (and work on) their own ‘gems’. Thank you!” – Sara, mother and home educator
Printable Activities to Teach Kids About Virtues
There are also free printable activity pages to further explore the idea of mining your virtues after reading the book.
Download the printable activity sheets pictured above from this page.
Download the group games and activities on this page.