Priceless Gifts: A Tale from Italy

There is an old saying that good things come in small packages. In the days of the spice trade, this was certainly true, as merchants left Europe in pursuit of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, which were so rare at home that only the wealthiest could afford them. When Antonio, an Italian merchant, sets sail from Genoa to trade for spices, he discovers by accident that he harbors a treasure equally rare in the Spice Islands, where the king is looking for a solution to his rodent problem. The ensuing events prove that one man’s surplus is another man’s treasure. John Kanzler’s luminous illustrations evoke the Old World setting of this traditional story and the rich backdrop of he spice trade. Sometimes the best gifts come in the smallest packages. This Italian folktales about generosity will teach readers the importance of citizenship, fairness and respect.