Synopsis
Even though Randy is much loved at home, he has a serious problem—everything he has is old! His rich neighbor Mike, who often teases Randy, has a new bike, new toys, and never does chores. Randy, however, rides an old bike, has old toys, and has to do all kinds of work around the house. Though Randy is often reminded that "things don't bring happiness," he desperately wishes he could be rich so he could buy everything new.
To Randy's great delight, his wish comes true. Everything he touches turns into gold, even his beloved dog. As he holds his lifeless gold dog, he realizes he's the most miserable kid in the world. Remembering he has one more wish, he uses it to return things as they were before. His wish comes true, and he becomes the richest poor kid.
Children's Literature
A young boy named Randy is upset because his family is poor and he cannot have new things like the other children around him. He is unhappy because his clothes and toys are old and his mother makes him do chores around the house. His mother tries to explain to Randy that he has plenty of food and clothing so he should be content, but Randy believes that only money will bring him happiness. One night Randy has a dream that changes the way he thinks about his situation. A man appears to Randy and explains that he can have two wishes. Randy is thrilled, and he wishes that everything he touches would turn to gold. His wish comes true and he believes that it is the happiest day of his life. As Randy begins to touch things in his room, the items quickly turn to gold. Things get complicated when he cannot even get a drink or eat without the food and juice turning to gold. Eventually, Randy realizes all of this gold may not be the key to a happy life. This lesson becomes ever so clear when he touches his beloved dog Sandy and she too turns to gold. Randy is miserable and decides to use his last wish to change things back to the way they were. This is a heartwarming story with an important message. This book is part of the "Another Sommer-Time Story" series which teaches children positive character traits for living a successful life. A web site, which contains free character building lesson plans, activity pages, quizzes, and much more, is located on the back cover. This would be a great resource to include in any character education program. Reviewer: Melissa Hower