
By Patricia C. McKissack, Jerry Pinkney (Illustrator)
During the Depression, Nella learns the true joy of sharing a cherished Christmas gift.
In the midst of the Great Depression, young Nella dreams of a special Christmas gift—a Baby Betty doll. When her wish comes true, she claims the doll with excitement. But as the day unfolds, Nella faces a heartwarming dilemma: is the joy of having Baby Betty greater than the happiness of sharing with her sisters? This touching tale explores the spirit of giving and the bonds of family, leaving readers to wonder if Nella will choose to embrace the true meaning of Christmas.
Newbery Honor-winning author McKissack and Caldecott Medal-winning illustrator Pinkney have outdone themselves in this heart-warming picture book infused with humor and the true spirit of Christmas. Christmas always comes to Nella’s house, but Santa Claus brings gifts only once in a while. That’s because it’s the Depression and Nella’s family is poor. Even so, Nella’s hoping that this year she and her two sisters will get a beautiful Baby Betty doll. On Christmas morning, the girls are beside themselves with excitement! There is Baby Betty, in all her eyelash-fluttering magnificence. “Mine!” Nella shouts, and claims the doll for herself. But soon she discovers that Baby Betty isn’t nearly as much fun as her sisters. Would it be more fun to share this very best gift with them after all?
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