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Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2019 · Est. 9 min read-aloud
What Is Given from the Heart
Written by Patricia C. McKissack · Illustrated by April Harrison
A young boy helps his mother put together a care package for a family in need, and finds a way to give something special to a girl his age.
32 pages· 1,095 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud
$19.99Save 5%
Bookroo's summary
James Otis faces a dilemma when his church collects donations for a family who lost everything in a fire. With little to give, he must find a way to contribute to the 'love box.' As he searches for something meaningful, James learns a powerful lesson about the true value of giving from the heart. Will he discover that even the smallest gesture can make a big difference? This touching tale of compassion and generosity will warm your heart and inspire you to see the beauty in selfless acts.
"What is given from the heart reaches the heart."
— from the book
From the publisher
This final, magnificent picture book from three-time Coretta Scott King Award winner and Newbery Honor author Patricia McKissack is a poignant and uplifting celebration of the joy of giving.
“Misery loves company,” Mama says to James Otis. It’s been a rough couple of months for them, but Mama says as long as they have their health and strength, they’re blessed. One Sunday before Valentine’s Day, Reverend Dennis makes an announcement during the service— the Temples have lost everything in a fire, and the church is collecting anything that might be useful to them. James thinks hard about what he can add to the Temple’s “love box,” but what does he have worth giving? With her extraordinary gift for storytelling, McKissack—with stunning illustrations by Harrison—delivers a touching, powerful tale of compassion and reminds us all that what is given from the heart, reaches the heart.
At a glance
- Format
- Hardcover
- Pages
- 32
- Words
- 1,095
- Reading age
- 4–8
- Audience
- Picture
- Lexile
- AD660L
After the last page
Talk about it together
Mama encourages James Otis to find something to give to a family struggling more than they. Even though James Otis doesn't think he has much to give, his Mama teaches him that you can always give from the heart. Do you have any items you could let go of and donate to help someone in need?
James Otis comes up with the perfect gift for Sarah because it's a gift of love from his heart. We don't always have to give objects to help others—what gifts can you give, from the heart, that aren't objects (like smiling or being a friend)?
Good to know
Stories behind the story
In dedicating this book to her grandchildren, April included this note:
When your parents were very small, I used to special-order Patricia McKissack's children's books for them to enjoy. I would read aloud to them each night while they cuddled up in my arms. Who knew that one day I would illustrate her picture book and be able to share this wonderful legacy with the children of my children! I have learned that dreams really do come true and that what God has for you is for you. I pray that you treasure and believe that no matter where you find yourself in this world, God will find you and bestow upon you all that is planned for your life. Your mission is to be ready and say YES. May your love of reading always catch you with a book in hand. From my heart to yours, Grandma April
In her book dedication, April also added this note to Patricia McKissack, the book's author:
Although you're no longer with us and we didn't have an opportunity to meet prior to your passing, I truly felt your spirit was present while re-creating your story through pictures. Your work has been an inspiration to me, and I thank God for the opportunity to be a part of your last gift of storytelling through the written word. May God's peace and love continue to rest upon you, and may your voice be forever remembered in the hearts of children everywhere.
What readers & critics say
Reviews
6.4
out of 7
6.0
“This is a beautiful book! The illustrations are phenomenal and the message is one that sinks deep into the soul—the joy that comes from giving not from our plenty but from our own lack.”
Marmee
Trusted reviewer
“But James Otis can’t think of anything he has that the little girl would want. Finally, he comes up with a plan, and what he gives from the heart, little Sarah cherishes.”
Kirkus
Critic
“But when their pastor asks the congregation to help a family who lost everything in a fire, Mama does her part, sewing an apron made from her cherished white tablecloth, and she expects James to find “a li’l bit of something” for the girl, Sarah.”
Publisher's Weekly
Critic
The author
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The fine print
Book details
Reading levels
- ATOS
- 3.3
- F&P level
- ~P
- AR points
- 0.5
- AR interest level
- LG
- AR quiz
- 117897
Publication
- Published
- January 1, 2019
- First published
- January 8, 2019
- Publisher
- Schwartz & Wade
Edition
- Language
- English
- Type
- Picture Book
- Text details
- The text of this book is set in Adobe Caslon Pro.
- Illustration details
- The illustrations were rendered in mixed media, including acrylics, collage, art pens, and found objects.
Identifiers
- ISBN
- 9780375836152
- LCCN
- 2006030981
- OCLC
- 1030446666
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