Camp, Joaquín. Robbery, The. Joaquín Camp, Illus. Berbay, 05/2024. [40]pp. Picture Book. Trade $18.99. 978-1-9226-1070-6. GRADES Preschool–2. ADDITIONAL.
Argentinian artist and storyteller Joaquín Camp introduces us to a trio of would-be thieves who intend to tunnel their way into a bank. Things start off well, but soon they are popping up in all the wrong places. The thieves interrupt a symphony, a wrestling match, and a Titanic-influenced scene on a ship. Finally, an exhausted thief wonders out loud, “What if the treasure doesn’t exist? What if it’s a metaphor and is actually in our hearts, instead?” So they give up on the robbery and go home to have dinner with the mole, the wrestler, and some members of the symphony. Children will be delighted by the bold illustrations that are made exclusively with markers, and appreciate the message that the experiences and friends made along the way are the true treasure. The three identical robbers appear to be white with pink skin. Other characters are drawn with a multitude of skin colors.
Rachael Reiley—Hillcrest Elementary K–8 / Oakland Unified School District