Maggie's Treasured Stone

Maggie's Treasured Stone is an engaging children's story which focuses on the challenges faced by an economically disadvantaged little girl, who lives in a single parent home. Maggie, a first grader, lives in a run down and poorly kept home. Each morning she dresses herself in out of style, ill fitting and dirty clothes while helping her younger sister Abby get ready for kindergarten. Maggie and Abby dread riding the bus because of the mocking stares and cruel words hurled at them by classmates. On the other hand, Maggie's biggest thrill each day is when she receives a look of approval, smile, or hug from her teacher, Mrs. Shoemaker. Otherwise, Maggie wallows in sadness and despair. While the other kids eagerly await and participate in recess fun, Maggie lags behind hoping not to draw their mockery. She even sits on a distant bench in order to avoid facing her classmates. Noticing her sorrow, Mrs. Shoemaker inquires as to the reason for Maggie's seclusion and tears. Maggie shares her feeling of worthlessness, shame, and being different. Mrs. Shoemaker demonstrates how the stones on the playground are all different and beautiful in their own special way, yet each is needed to complete the road under construction. Maggie soon understands the same logic applies to people. Each person is unique and needed on the road of life. In order to always remind herself, she carries a beautiful, treasured stone in her pocket.