Our Treasures Within (Loyola Press; January 20, 2026), a rare and meaningful new picture book from Pope Francis, created in collaboration with bestselling children’s book makers Peter H. Reynolds and Paul A. Reynolds.
Inspired by a global virtual gathering Pope Francis held with children, this book offers families a simple but powerful message: each child carries unique gifts meant to be discovered, celebrated, and shared. Through gentle language and luminous illustrations, Our Treasures Within helps parents start conversations about compassion, purpose, and the special strengths every child brings to the world.
I had a chance to learn more in this interview.
What inspired this book?
Our Treasures Within began as an effort to share Pope Francis’ message with children in a picture book that could carry his spirit forward for generations. In our early conversations, one image the Pope had offered to young people—a “treasure box” inside each of us—immediately resonated. That simple metaphor captured what we’ve always believed: every child holds unique gifts waiting to be discovered and shared. From that spark, the book grew into a gentle reminder that each of us carries something precious that can brighten the world. That message is also deeply rooted in Ignatian spirituality, which shaped us from an early age through the Jesuit mentors who encouraged our curiosity, compassion, and sense of purpose.
Why is it important to instill values like compassion in children from an early age?
Compassion is one of the greatest superpowers we can nurture. When children learn early on to see the world through another’s eyes, they grow into adults who build bridges instead of walls. Teaching empathy from the start gives young people the tools to face challenges with kindness, courage, and a sense of shared humanity — qualities our world desperately needs.
How can families help children celebrate unique strengths?
Families can help children flourish by noticing and celebrating each child’s gifts, talents, and strengths. By naming them out loud, you can cultivate and ignite those little sparks of curiosity, creativity, humor, or kindness that make each child wonderfully singular. When adults give children permission to explore their interests, make mistakes, and express themselves freely, they send a powerful message: “Your unique gifts are real and can make a difference in the world.” Simple rituals — sharing “today’s little triumph,” displaying creative work, or encouraging a new passion — help children see their strengths as gifts worth nurturing. And, just as importantly, they help children explore how those “treasures within” can be used to make their world a better place for their friends, neighbors, community, nation, and beyond.
Pope Francis (born Jorge Mario Bergoglio) was the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church, known and remembered for his humility, commitment to the poor, and his inclusive vision of faith in the modern world.
Peter H. Reynolds is a New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of beloved children’s books including The Dot, Ish, and The Word Collector. He writes, illustrates, and builds spaces where originality can flourish. In his hometown of Dedham, Massachusetts, Peter enjoys spending time with his two children and grandchildren. He also leads the Reynolds Center for Teaching, Learning & Creativity, a nonprofit dedicated to helping students, educators, and communities make a positive impact with compassion. Peter is the proud owner of The Blue Bunny, a cozy independent bookshop in Dedham Square where he occasionally works as a barista, and he founded Dedham Square Circle to help keep his community connected and vibrant.
Paul A. Reynolds is the twin brother of Peter H. Reynolds and serves as CEO of Fablevision Studios. He teaches digital media production at Boston College, where he has been inspiring students for nearly two decades to use media, storytelling, and technology to tell “stories that matter, stories that move.” He lives with his family in Dedham, Massachusetts.
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