"Mills striking illustrations use startling perspectives and close-ups to convey this fable's message about the transformative power of art." Quill and Quire

"The pale, austere paintings with which Judith Christine Mills illustrates the first part of her picture book are great conveyors of mood ... an old chest, uncovered in the fields, releases its secrets, and Mills' paintings, now green and "in bloom", reflect the village's change of heart." The Globe and Mail

"... this book, with text and earthy pictures ... delights with its tale of downtrodden villagers and how their lives are changed by the discovery of an old chest filled with musical instruments and dancing shoes." Macleans Magazine

"The Painted Chest contains an important message for all of us. The wonderful illustrations which accompany this inspirational story are the work of the author, who is a talented artist as well as a gifted writer for children." The Telegram - St. John's Newfoundland.

"Judith Christine Mills combines her artistic talents and her writing skills to produce a beautiful story of hope and inspiration ... Mills, a Toronto resident, is skilled in telling her story visually, using colour in subtle ways to explore the changes in the villagers' attitudes. The story is touching and hopeful in both its content and its telling." The Hamilton Spectator, Hamilton,Ontario.

"A gentle and telling fable that emphasizes that we do not live by bread alone, the story is illustrated in soft colour and gentle line." The Lanley Times, Lanley,B.C.

"Mills' illustrations beautifully convey the shift from crushing misery to enlightenment and her message will resonate both for busy parents and their children." The New Brunswick Reader

"Fabulous Illustrations." Coast Independent, Gibsons, B.C.

"It may be an age-old message that we cannot live by bread alone, that our souls and spirits need nourishment too, but its relevance doesn't diminish. If you are looking for relief from the daily struggle to get ahead or to make ends meet, perhaps reading The Painted Chest with a child is the right recipe. It's certainly food for thought." The London Free Press, London, Ontario

"This imaginative tale for young children speaks to the heart and imagination. Mills' Fable teaches children that they cannot live by bread alone. Her colourful illustrations are magical, as befits her parable of our need to nourish both body and spirit. Highly recommended." Canadian Book Reviewer's Annual