The Story of the Treasure Seekers

E. Nesbit's "The Story of the Treasure Seekers" introduces the spirited Bastable children, Dora, Oswald, Dicky, Alice, Noel, and H. O., who face a significant family challenge: their widowed father has lost his fortune. Determined to help, these six siblings concoct a series of ingenious, if often misguided, schemes to find treasure and restore their family's prosperity. From digging for buried gold to attempting to be bandits and even kidnappers, their adventures are filled with humor, squabbles, and heartwarming moments of sibling loyalty. This 1899 classic, beautifully illustrated, offers a glimpse into Victorian childhood while exploring themes of resilience, family responsibility, and the boundless power of imagination. It's a perfect read-aloud for younger children and an engaging independent read for early to late elementary ages.

"This is the story of the different ways we looked for treasure..." When their mother dies and their father's business partner runs off with most of their money, the six intrepid Bastable children are determined to restore their family's fallen fortunes. Theseresourceful children squabble, make up, and have many memorable adventures, from publishing their own newspaper to foiling a pair of real bandits and even becoming kidnappers themselves. But while the efforts of the Bastables are often ingenious, their good intentions always go hilariously awry. This lively, funny story perfectly captures these children's remarkable bravery and deep sense of honor. First published in 1899, this children's classic is available again for a new generation of readers with a magnificent cover illustration by Caldecott winner Paul O. Zelinsky.