Now that the Christmas season, it's time to focus on books that will bring us joy. This is one of my absolute favorite stories, period. But it so happens that it has a Christmas theme!
Illustrator: Carol Heyer
Publisher: Ideals Children's Books
Themes: Christmas, gifts, unselfishness
From the Inside Flap: O. Henry, the master of the short story, captures the essence of giving in this classic Christmas tale. Readers are introduced to Jim and Della Dillingham, a young couple struggling with poverty who sacrifice for each other their most valuable possessions. With his distinctive twist of irony, O. Henry created a story that illustrates the timeless lesson of the Magi - that the most precious of gifts come from the unselfish heart.
This classic story is beautifully retold and features richly detailed illustrations by award-winning artist Carol Heyer. The Gift of the Magi is a book children and their parents will treasure.
First page: "One dollar and eighty-seven cents. That was all. And sixty cents of it was in pennies. Pennies saved one and two at a time by bullying the grocer and the vegetable man and the butcher until her cheeks burned with embarrassment. Della counted it three times. Only one dollar and eighty-seven cents-- and the next day would be Christmas.
Why I like this book: I've been fascinated for years by O. Henry's stories, but this one is so touching that I never tire of reading it. And because of that, I believe all children should be exposed to such a poignant tale, especially when it's theme is unselfishness. At Christmas time, we could do with more examples of this trait, couldn't we?
Here are a few links for teachers, librarians and parents:
- Purchase The Gift of the Magi Here.
- Other gorgeous titles by the talented Carol Heyer HERE
- Carol Heyer's Illustrator Webpage can be found HERE
- More great stories by O. Henry HERE
- A completely comprehensive page with all links relating to The Gift of the Magi HERE