About This Book

Newbery Medalist Nancy Willard weaves an original, magical tale in this stunningly illustrated picture book about an unsuccessful baker who finds a beautifully carved bed in a strange shop — and it's free!  But more wonders are in store, as the bed has powers of its own.

That night, the bed takes off in flight, carrying the baker and his wife through the skies and stars to meet a master baker who gives them magic yeast that will help their bakery to become the best — and richest — bakery in town! But the gift of yeast comes with a catch — and a test that will eventually teach the baker and his wife about the true meaning of riches, love, and loyalty.

In 2007, illustrator John Thompson was honored with the Hamilton King Award for Best Illustration of the Year for one of the exquisite paintings in this book.

** "Willard is a master storyteller, never more so than in this many-layered fable.  ...offers a wondrous story for older readers that can be read repeatedly with both joy and longing." — Kirkus, starred review