Building character, one story at a time
One family’s story — the journey to pursue what can’t be bought or sold: the transformation of our lives through the character of Christ. This book dares you to believe that character cultivated day by day, can transform your family — and maybe even the world. Now available through Amazon in paperback, digital, and audio!
The Character Treasure Chest
From the Back of the Book
Here's the heart of it
The Character Treasure Chest
In a world obsessed with knowledge, achievements, and appearances, this book reminds us of what is truly important —what can’t be bought or sold—the transformation of our lives through the character of Christ. But character doesn’t just happen; it’s an intentional process. Through powerful stories, biblical insights, and practical tools, Jeanne Bolin invites parents and others who work with children to discover the joy of cultivating godly character that will shape and influence future generations.
The Character Treasure Chest, designed for even the youngest children, will grow into a lifelong resource library for sons and daughters. From everyday lessons at the dinner table to faith-filled moments of conviction and courage, each chapter overflows with wisdom and warmth. You’ll laugh at relatable family stories, be inspired by timeless heroes of faith, and be challenged to plant seeds of integrity, determination, excellence, and love. This isn’t a textbook—it’s a treasure chest bursting with memorable definitions, creative teaching ideas, and life-giving Scriptures that bring character to life for kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, mentor, or someone longing for a life of influence and distinction, you’ll find The Character Treasure Chest to be a simple, fun, and life-changing tool that guides us all to become more like Christ.
Jeanne and her husband, Don, devoted their lives to building a culture of character in their home for their eight children, and now that legacy continues with their 33 grandchildren. This book dares you to believe that character, cultivated day by day, can transform your family—and maybe even the world.
Inside the chest
Eighteen character traits, told through unforgettable stories
Across 22 chapters, each trait comes alive through Scripture, the lives of great Christians and historical figures, and stories from the Bolin family's own journey.
Meet Corrie ten Boom, George Washington Carver, Fanny Crosby, Eric Liddell, George Müller, Gladys Aylward, Amy Carmichael, Booker T. Washington, Todd Beamer, and John Bunyan — alongside Joseph, Daniel, Samuel, and Moses from the pages of Scripture. Plus built-in tools like Everyday Character Definitions for Parents and Character Stamps for Kids.
Kind words
What readers are saying
Every home needs a copy
“Jeanne’s book arrived today. WOW! It is EXCELLENT! Every home needs a copy of this fascinating character resource. Every school needs a copy for every classroom. Every college or university that prepares teachers needs this book in their curriculum. Never in the history of our country has a book such as this been more desperately needed. Buy it today. And buy a copy for each of your children and your grandchildren.”
OliviaI couldn’t put it down
“I took the book, The Character Treasure Chest with me on a vacation to Europe this summer, and I couldn’t put it down. Here I was in front of all these beautiful and historic sights, and all I could do was devour every page. It is full of powerful truths designed to build character through storytelling. How encouraging that these stories could impact the lives of my kids, grandkids, and my students at school.
As the Principal of Heart Cry Christian Academy, I am having all of my staff read the book as our school year begins. I am asking them to journal what the Lord is saying to them personally and as educators. I want us to have a character-building year. We are even changing our vernacular to match the way Jeanne explains character qualities. Character training will be the focus of every chapel. Our curriculum is set thanks to this incredible book!”
Lisa VanCampPrincipal, Heart Cry Christian Academy · Queen Creek, AZDefinitely worth your time! A must-read!
“This is an excellent book on living and teaching Godly character to your children and grandchildren. Practical, teachable lessons on embracing wisdom through Scripture. A must-read!!”
BeckyAmazon Reviewer · July 8, 2026A book for every stage of life
“We’ve all heard the cliché that children don’t come with an instruction manual — well, that is no longer true. The Character Treasure Chest is a practical textbook and a spiritual study guide all in one. It is designed to help Christian families build a strong foundation at every stage of life.
This guide supports multiple generations and equips parents, grandparents, and other family members to embrace their role to teach and share biblical wisdom, values, and life lessons. Whether you’re navigating the busy toddler years, those challenging teen years, or the golden years, this book provides invaluable and practical guidance. It is a thoughtful, timely resource that will surely bless families for generations to come.
As it says in the book, ‘Just do it! Even if it’s not perfect…just do it!’”
DotAugust 1, 2026More than a good read; it was an experience!
“I am filled up and overflowing. With every ‘light bulb’ moment, every story, every character… I was drawn in. I am making my own Character Treasure Chest!”
JoAnnAmazon Reviewer · July 23, 2026You did your homework in this thing!
“Wow! Wow! Wow! I just finished reading the whole book, and I am just stunned. When reading Christian literature, I place a HIGH value on the author’s ability to ‘prove it.’ Whatever the opinion or thought — show me in scripture, back it up, show me in research or other supportive material. You did your homework in this thing! Scripture after scripture led the way for every piece.
I’ve heard and told most of these stories multiple times. But reading them again, and with your guiding thoughts, has impacted my daily life. Just yesterday I was able to wade into some deep waters with a hurting friend, not sure if it was completely safe, but certain of the call of God to be faithful in doing so… if Gladys Aylward can walk confidently into that prison, I can go meet this guy at Starbucks and trust God to do the fighting!”
JoshCan’t put this book down
“Loooooooving this book!”
VicAmazon Reviewer · July 22, 2026Passing on Character
“Ever wish you could rewrite history? If it were possible to go back in time to when my children were little, I would have this book in my hip pocket to refer to constantly! What insight this book holds! I have ordered it for my son and his wife as they raise my grandchildren. I pray they will dip into this ‘treasure chest’ and it will aid them in raising children with character…so needed in our world today! I know I will include its wisdom in Gran moments with my precious progeny!”
E.I.E.I.O.Amazon Reviewer · July 22, 2026A must-have book!
“What an amazing book that every home should have on their shelves. Jeanne takes you on such a wonderful journey, meeting new ‘friends’ and learning impactful stories about many different character qualities. And almost endless resources on how to implement the character treasure chest in your home!”
Amazon ReviewerJuly 23, 2026Get your copy
Available to purchase through Amazon
A treasured book to hold and make your own — for hands, lamplight, cozy chairs and quiet moments. Circle what speaks to you, fold down a page corner; embrace one page at a time.
Buy on AmazonThe book at your fingertips, wherever the day takes you — on a tablet, phone, or Kindle — redeeming every moment to read, reflect, and grow!
Buy on AmazonThe stories read aloud for you — perfect for car rides and busy afternoons with earpods. In the recording, you not only get to hear Jeanne’s voice; you get to hear her heart!
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