The Most Magnificent Thing

Young readers will love the surprise ending. Readers learn that not everything comes out “just the right way” instantly.–International Reading Association
… Spires’s buddy tale of overcoming obstacles and learning to manage expectations will likely find an appreciative audience, especially in a classroom setting.–Quill & Quire
A little girl has big plans to make the most magnificent thing, with the help of her canine sidekick.–Canadian Family
An entertaining book for the very young, this is also a useful reminder that most problems can be worked out if we give it time. Spires’s digital artwork does a masterful job of injecting humour.–The Montreal Gazette
In the end, it’s precisely the kind of book we need for kids these days. Perfection is a myth. Banged up, beat up, good enough can sometimes be the best possible solution to a problem. A lesson for the 21st century children everywhere.–Elizabeth Bird, SLJ.com
It’s a useful description of the creative process, an affirmation of making rather than buying, and a model for girl engineers.–Publishers Weekly
Spires’ understanding of the fragility and power of the artistic impulse mixes with expert pacing and subtle characterization for maximum delight.–Kirkus Reviews - Starred Review
The Most Magnificent Thing captures the ups and downs of the creative process perfectly … with honesty and even a little elegance.–Globe and Mail
The Most Magnificent Thing is a wonderful fable about effort and reward, in a tone perfectly understandable to younger children. A definite addition to public and primary school collections.–CM Magazine
This indefatigable little girl won’t let frustration get in the way of creating her magnificent contraption. Determination is key!–Today’s Parent
This is a solid choice with a great message that encourages kids not to quit in the face of disappointment but rather to change their perspective and start over.–School Library Journal
Without being heavy-handed, the author has shown how perseverance, determination, vision, and dealing with your emotions can pay off. Illustrations add charm to the story … This is a good read-aloud.–Library Media Connection

Ashley Spires grew up in the Pacific Northwest, the supposed stomping grounds of Bigfoot. She is the author and illustrator of a number of books for children, including Small Saul and the Adventures of Binky the Space Cat. She was the recipient of the 2011 Silver Birch Express Award and the 2011 Hackmatack Award for Binky the Space Cat and was shortlisted for a Joe Shuster Comics for Kids Award and an Eisner Award for Binky Under Pressure. Ashley currently lives in British Columbia.

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