Author Peter Abrahams, who is renowned for his compelling narratives, was born and raised in South Africa at a time when many people had few educational options. Despite the difficulties he encountered, his quote captures the importance he placed on reading and education.

Abrahams started reading at school, where he attended classes consistently for three years. He acquired reading and writing abilities that would serve him well in life. Shakespeare's plays adapted for younger audiences were one of his favorite books, which introduced him to a whole new world of literature. Palgrave's "Golden Treasury," a compilation of poems he found on his own, was another noteworthy discovery.

For Abrahams, these books turned into priceless treasures that were worth more than any material wealth. In a setting where such opportunities were limited, they served as both sources of enjoyment and symbols of freedom and knowledge. These literary works were Abrahams' version of a golden treasure that he held in the highest regard, much like gold is frequently seen as the ultimate measure of value.

The allegory of material wealth emphasizes how education and books can have greater value than tangible belongings. Finding and reading those unique books changed Peter Abrahams' life, giving him a deep inner life and laying the groundwork for his future as a writer who would later write about the hardships faced by South Africans.

This tale demonstrates how literature and independent study can influence a person's identity and future. The pursuit of knowledge through books can open doors that might otherwise remain closed, even in cases where formal education is limited.