The Hundred Penny Box

Reach for this Newbery Honor book when your child is navigating the complexities of a multigenerational household or struggling to understand why an elderly relative clings to old, seemingly useless belongings. It is a beautiful resource for teaching empathy toward the aging process and the importance of preserving family history through storytelling. The story follows Michael, a young boy who forms a deep bond with his hundred year old great-great-aunt Dew. While Michael's mother wants to replace Aunt Dew's bulky, weathered old penny box with something new and tidy, Michael recognizes that the box holds the spirit of his aunt's entire life. Through their interactions, children ages 7 to 11 learn that memories are a form of treasure and that honoring our elders often means protecting what they value most.