The Matchbox Diary

The Matchbox Diary by Paul Fleischman, published by National Geographic Books on August 2, 2016, is a reprint edition featuring 40 pages in English. This book presents the story of a little girl who, during a visit to her great-grandfather, discovers a collection of matchboxes that contain small objects, each representing a significant memory from his journey as an immigrant from Italy to America. Through these items, the narrative explores themes of family, resilience, and the immigrant experience.
Readers will find a touching portrayal of multigenerational connections as the great-grandfather shares his memories tied to each object, such as an olive pit and a ticket from his first baseball game. The book delves into social themes related to emigration and immigration, making it a poignant introduction to the American immigrant story. Accompanied by illustrations from Bagram Ibatoulline, The Matchbox Diary invites readers to reflect on the past while connecting with the present.
Official synopsis Publisher
“Instantly engrossing, free of self-pity, and resonant with resilience and gratitude . . . A powerful introduction to the American immigrant story.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)
When a little girl visits her great-grandfather, she asks about the collection of matchboxes harboring objects she can hold in her hand, each one evoking a memory. Together they tell of his journey from Italy to a new country, before he could read and write: the olive pit his mother gave him to suck on when there wasn’t enough food; a bottle cap he saw on his way to the boat; a ticket still retaining the thrill of his first baseball game. Newbery Medalist Paul Fleischman and acclaimed illustrator Bagram Ibatoulline tell a breathtaking immigration tale with appeal across generations.
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