The Three and Many Wishes of Jason Reid

Deborah Dowson is a Canadian children’s librarian in North Wales,
Pennsylvania.

Eleven-year-old Jason is granted three wishes by an elflike being named
Quicksilver. Jason thinks very seriously about his desires because he
knows that dire consequences result when people become greedy and
careless. His first wish for a magic baseball glove is followed by the
wish that it be accepted by everyone as ordinary. For his third wish,
Jason dares to ask for three more wishes. His third wish is granted,
which gives him a chance to ask for something truly special and
generous, so Jason wishes for the well being of the whole world. When
this does not work, Jason and his friend Penny try to think of
beneficial wishes that won’t break the rules. When it seems certain
that their baseball park will be paved over to make way for a freeway,
they realize the best wish is right in front of them—or is it?
Jason’s desire to make it happen is tested—only by forfeiting all
his magic treasures can he ensure that the park becomes a permanent
neighborhood oasis.

The Three and Many Wishes of Jason Reid should have a place on every
youngster’s bookshelf. Its clever blending of the familiar and the
fantastic is a delight to the imagination. Jason’s predicament
highlights the constant struggle between greed and generosity, and the
story’s timeless quality of theme and setting has an enduring appeal.
Highly recommended.