In the post–World War II years of Amsterdam, Thomas, a young lad whose goal in life is to be happy, lives with a Bible-quoting father who is abusive toward his family and blames it on religion. However, as the story unfolds, readers learn along with Thomas that it is his fear that is behind his cowardice. Thomas keeps a journal, The Book of Everything, and in it he re cords his imaginative observations and experiences, his changing beliefs, and even his talks with Jesus. With themes of fear, the search for happiness, and hope, this short novel invites deeper thinking for older readers, but it tells a story with simplicity and humor that appeals to all. 2007 USBBY Outstanding International Books List, Golden Owl (the Flemish equivalent of the Newbery), Golden Pencil (the Dutch equivalent of the Newbery), 2006 Book Sense Summer Pick, The Washington Post’s Ten Best Books for Children. jm

Originally published as Boek van Alle Dingen in Dutch by Querido The Netherlands, in 2004. Translated by John Nieuwenhuizen.

Faith is joy is love is hope in this novel of exquisite power and everyday miracles, reminiscent of Barbara Kingsolver's THE POISONWOOD BIBLE.Thomas can see things no one else can see. Tropical fish swimming in the canals. The magic of Mrs. Van Amersfoort, the Beethoven-loving witch next door. The fierce beauty of Eliza with her artificial leg. And the Lord Jesus, who tells him, "Just call me Jesus." Thomas records these visions in his "Book of Everything." They comfort him when his father beats him, when the angels weep for his mother's black eyes. And they give him the strength to finally confront his father and become what he wants to be when he grows up: "Happy."