Reviewed by Constance Stadler for Readers' Favorite

In Glowy and the Lost Treasure by A.K. Smith, we are introduced to Glowy, a friendly tropical fish emitting a radiance that attracts fellow ocean residents. One day, she excitedly followed a new source of brightness and met Rosy, a starfish lying next to something gleaming—a locket that was a gift from her grandfather. In admiring Glowy’s radiance, Rosy shared that her fondest wish was to sing for others who would come if she shone brightly, but the locket was too heavy to wear. When Glowy told Rosy there was another way to sparkle—to do something selflessly—Rosy immediately perked up and confided a secret. There was a hidden treasure in a cave that could only be taken by someone who happily shared it with others. Glowy’s innate selflessness could help Rosy find the best way to use it for the benefit of others. Drawn to Glowy’s sparkling nature, in a short time others soon joined them, including Nicky the barracuda, Violet, an adventure-loving jellyfish, and even a vegetarian shark, and they all went to find the treasure.

Glowy’s story will appeal to young readers because, while they will likely know that goodness matters, through reading this story, they will come to understand why selflessness matters above all other attributes. The narrative evocatively emphasizes that real treasure is a wealth of inner qualities that bring about a sparkling nature. The illustrations are as vivid and captivating as the unfolding tale that A.K. Smith has written in a way that will not only fascinate an engaged child but also help them understand the deeper meaning. If a child reads Glowy and the Lost Treasure with a parent or educator, much could be gained, opening the door for meaningful exchange. The story serves as a template for building character, underscoring that being good is not receiving a gold star on a teacher’s corkboard; it is the glow of the giving heart that dwells within.