Award-winning artist Satoshi Kitamura delivers the powerful message that kindness is more important than money. Nominated for the Greenaway Medal 2021. Celebrate the power of a smile in this deceptively simple story set in a multi-ethnic market. A small boy is planning how to spend his first ever pocket money when disaster strikes and he's left with only one coin. His day seems to be ruined until he sees a Smile Shop. In a surprise ending, the world is put to rights and suddenly the whole world is smiling again!

Prizes

Commended for Kate Greenaway Medal nomination 2012

'A captivating and surprising picture book packed with intricate illustrations and a strong message - that kindness is more important than money. This wonderful picture book is packed with beautifully observed illustrations, full of gentle humour and intricate detail, which reflect a multicultural, multi-ethnic town.'Book Trust; 'A wonderful demonstration of the fact that kindness is worth so much more than anything that money can buy - something else we've learned in the last few months. A book to ponder upon and discuss across a wide age range.' Red Reading Hub; 'A beautiful book to share and use to remind us that money isn't necessary to be happy, and that kindness costs nothing but makes the world a nicer place to be a part of.' What I read; 'Kitamura's simple but emotive story speaks loudly about the power of kindness and its value to us as human beings in a shared world, while his richly detailed and carefully crafted illustrations are brimming with warm humour, compassion and acute insight. With its playful story, subtle philosophy, and resonant messages about the infectious nature of a simple smile, this beautiful book is guaranteed to lift the spirits of readers young and old.' Lancashire Evening Post

Currently living in Japan, Satoshi Kitamura has created over 20 of his own picture books, as well as having illustrated many by prominent authors such as Hiawyn Oram, Jon Agard and Colin McNaughton. His books have been translated into more than 20 languages. Awards include the Mother Goose Award, Silver Award for the Smarties Prize, and the National Art Library Illustrations Award.