Ariana Treasure: The Secret Ingredient by Jacqueline de Rose-Ahern and
Karen Erasmus (Wombat Books) PB RRP $10.99 ISBN: 9781761111822
Reviewed by Kellie Nissen
Ariana Treasure helps her mum in their shop, the Treasure Chest – a
thrift shop started by Ariana’s grandfather and specialising in reusable and
recyclable goods. Ariana loves their little shop and delights in finding items
to help her friends and the community.
In Book 1 of the series, The Missing Book, Ariana’s mother
mistakenly sells Ariana’s favourite book. It belonged to her grandfather and
was not for sale. Unfortunately, the boy who bought it is in no mood to return
it – having just moved house and feeling very upset about having to leave
behind his own ‘treasures’.
Book 2, The Secret Ingredient, sees Ariana and her friends,
Hunter and Jake, excited for the upcoming food truck competition. The boys’
parents own the Taco Garcia food truck and think they have a good chance of
winning – until they come down with a mystery bug.
In writing the Ariana Treasure series – six books in total – author
Jacqueline de Rose-Ahern has focused on creating short chapters with a simple
plot and one problem to solve, which is perfect for beginning readers. Themes
including kindness, sustainability, friendship and teamwork will resonate with
this younger audience, and send positive messages in a gentle way.
Karen Erasmus’ black and white illustrations bring the characters to
life and focus on transmitting the emotions felt as the story unfolds.
Readers aged 5 to 7 will enjoy solving the relatable problems faced by
Ariana and her friends, and the stories are sure to inspire personal
connections and deeper conversations about sustainable practices and kindness.
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