Inspired by actual events, The Stamp Collector tells the story of two boys. As children, they have different interests: one likes to collect stamps, the other to read and write stories. As adults, their lives cross paths in prison: one as a guard, the other as an inmate. Their avocations help them each to dream and not lose hope. Eventually the stamp collector must choose between the safety of submitting to an unjust system and the risk of speaking against it. That decision has the potential to change his world.
Jennifer Lanthier's first picture book provides a simple, yet profound insight into the power of the written word. Her story demonstrates the fragile nature of freedom--and the importance of confronting injustice despite the dangers involved. Readers' hearts will be touched by the suffering and courage of her two characters. Francois Thisdale's illustrations capture both the darkness of their plight as well as the light of hope that permeates this story. Jennifer Minicus is a teacher and mother currently living in Ridgewood, NJ.