Lynn Jenkins is a clinical psychologist, author and mother of three. Lynn is passionate about early intervention in the social and emotional development of children, and has written two previous picture books on the topics of anxiety and worry (Lessons of a LAC and Brave) as well as two non-fiction titles for adults, Best Start and School Start.
Kirrili Lonergan is a children’s book illustrator and mother of four. She has illustrated several picture books (Lessons of a LAC, Brave and Dandelions) as well as creating designs for clothes, prints and pottery. She is passionate about illustrating picture books that have a ‘healing’ message and has a great understanding of the need for such books as a result of her previous work as a paediatric nurse.
Aussie Reviews
“Ollie’s Treasure has a clear purpose: to model mindfulness in young children…Illustrations clearly depict Ollie’s emotions. Recommended for pre- and early-schoolers.” – Click here to view.
The Mummy Project
“This cleverly written book by local author and psychologist Lynn Jenkins introduces the concept of mindfulness to kids.” – Click here to view.
Educating Young Children
“Through simple text, this charming story sends a powerful reminder of how many of us who are in search of happiness do not realise that happiness starts from within”
Reading Eagle
“A lovely and important book that extols the importance of learning to be content with yourself, which will always make you happy.”
Linda’s Little Lit Reviews
“Jenkins reminds us how the little things in life become commonplace, losing their uniqueness, but should be experienced as treasures themselves. Through Lonergan’s animated watercolor and ink illustrations, readers will enjoy the “cheeky rat” Ollie as he hops, jumps, and spins his way across the pages filled with beehive-shaped houses and colorful gardens using each of his senses… A wonderful exercise in finding that happiness isn’t that far away, and is perfect to use in the classroom.”
Boomerang Books
“A gorgeous testimony to the art and importance of mindfulness, Ollie’s Treasure reinforces the value of appreciating the simple enduring things in life, like a grandmother’s love, over mere materialistic possessions. Dreamy illustrations and gentle prose make this a story to share.”
Red Reading Hub
“as part of a programme for young children’s mental health and well-being, it offers a good starting point for reflection and discussion.”
Pinerolo
“Ollie’s Treasure by Lynn Jenkins & Kirrili Lonergan (EK Books). Happiness is easy to find and we are all treasures in our own way. A touching and heartwarming story that ends in a big hug. Lovely for grandparents to share with their grandchildren – all treasures.”
Kids on The Coast
“A tale of mindfulness for young developing minds”
Jnr Bookworms Book Review
“They enjoyed Ollie’s treasure hunt and found the illustrations wonderful. The children all agreed the best part was when he realised that he actually had the treasure the whole time. The teachers loved this book and thought the story was beautiful and a great book to show the wonders of things if we just look around.”
Literacy, Family and Learning
“a story that points to the value of mindfulness for our children in a world of hustle and bustle and gadgets”
The Weekly Times
“fun-filled picture book about mindfulness”
In The Good Books
“This picture book sends a very important message to children in an uncomplicated way about encouraging mindfulness and living ‘in the now.’ It is a lovely story that I am sure young readers would enjoy!”
The Bottom Shelf
“An original story with a wonderful message.”
Boffins Books
“Ollie’s Treasure is such a beautifully illustrated book and will relax children using mindfulness techniques to tune in to the sounds, smells, taste and touch that calm the mind and body and help them take a step back to enjoy life and the simple joy of little things.”
SchoolDays
“An interesting story to teach young children how to find happiness in things other than toys. A good book with a simple but important story for all young children. Do get it!”
Books+Publishing
“Author and clinical psychologist Lynn Jenkins is savvy about the tools for engaging the social and emotional development of children, and Kirrili Lonergan’s illustrations are vibrant and energetic, depicting Ollie (a mouse) in constant action.”
Ladies In Racing
“…a fun-filled picture book about mindfulness.” Click here to read in full.
Reviewed by 14 year old Eve for the Home Education Australia’s Newsletter
“I personally love this book not just because of the colourful artistry, but because of the in depth meaning which is displayed throughout. Ollie’s journey was a fun read as he didn’t realise what he was actually doing was the treasure. So many people can relate to this book from young to old, we never look close enough to notice that our happiness is in what we do, not what we buy.”
