The Smallest Gift of Christmas
Peter H. Reynolds, Author and Illustrator
Candlewick Press, Sept. 24, 2013
Suitable for Ages: 3-7
Themes: Christmas, Gifts, Disappointment, Family
Opening: “Roland was eager for Christmas Day. He raced downstairs to see what was waiting for him.”
Synopsis: When Christmas morning arrives, Roland races to the living room and finds the smallest gift ever with his name on it. He closes his eyes and wishes for a bigger gift. Not happy, he wishes again and again. Larger gifts magically appear, but they don’t satisfy Roland. Frustrated, this feisty and determined boy sets off in a rocket to search the universe for the biggest gift. Looking back at earth, Roland realizes what he wants most.
Why I like this book: Peter Reynolds has created a very charming story that both children and adults will relate to in a manner that is light-hearted. Reynolds addresses the importance of family and being happy with what you have in a very entertaining manner. This is a small book packed with a big message. The illustrations are festive for the holidays as each page is beautifully done in bold splashes of red and green. And, the characters are done in Reynolds signature cartoon style. This is a wonderful gift book. Visit Peter H. Reynolds at his website.
Resources: This is meant to be a humorous read, but it also can be a great discussion book to talk with kids about the importance of Christmas. Put out paper, markers, crayons, glitter and glue and encourage your child to make Christmas cards or small gifts for family members.
Every Friday, authors and KidLit bloggers post a favorite picture book. To see a complete listing of all the Perfect Picture Books with resources, please visit author Susanna Leonard Hill’s Perfect Picture Books.
Children's Books Heal 
Great lesson. A fun challenge would be to try and make the smallest Christmas card.
LikeLike
What a great idea. I wish I had thought of that idea!
LikeLike
I think this was written for my son! ; )
LikeLike
I think most kids and grown-up kids can relate to this! It’s a cute story.
LikeLike
Beautiful! It sounds like a perfect Christmas story!
LikeLike
It’s a perfect story to read to kids to help them put things into perspective. And, it’s fun!
LikeLike
I’m so grateful that you reviewed this book today, Pat. I’ve been eager to read it since I first heard of it. Just checked our library system and two small out-of-town libraries have it — so it’s now on my hold list. It sounds wonderful!
LikeLike
I had to include this one before Christmas because of the wonderful message for kids just before their big day. You will love it!
LikeLike
Thanks for sharing this book! We’ll want to have it on our shelves for next Christmas for sure. One of the sweetest things that happened in the shop this year was when a kid’s uncle anonymously gave his nephew a gift certificate. The six year old boy came into the shop and wandered around looking at everything with his eyes wide open and sparkling. He finally zeroed in on a beautiful pan flute that he brought up to the counter along with his gift certificate. “Do I have enough for this?” He asked. Yep! Then he also grabbed a small top, one of the least expensive things we have in the shop, but which still have put him slightly over the gift certificate amount, Then he said “I want to get this (the pan flute) for my sister. She saw it the other day and loved it.” “Can I also get this top for me?” Of course he could. Using a gift certificate to get your sister a wonderful gift… priceless!
LikeLike
What a beautiful Christmas story, Craig. It is so wonderful to see a child using his gift certificate to buy something for his sister.
I’m pleased you liked my review. I’ve reviewed some really good books lately. Some you’d be interested in. Have a Merry Christmas!
LikeLike
Pat, sounds like a wonderful read for my grandkids! I was thrilled this year when my five grown-up kids said,”We don’t need anything. Just being together is what we want!”
LikeLike
That’s so lovely. The best gift of all. Your grandchildren would enjoy this story.
LikeLike
Excellent book, thanks for sharing. Love this author/illustrator.
Nice!
LikeLike
Glad you enjoyed the book. I love his books too!
LikeLike
This book sounds like it was written for my son who always wants the biggest ice cream, toy, etc. I’ll try to pick it up. Happy holidays, Pat!
LikeLike
Ha, ha! What kid doesn’t. He definitely would love this book, Robin. Happy holidays!
LikeLike
Sounds like a good way to keep Christmas in perspective in a very consumer-oriented society. We limit to 3 presents. Does the job as well. 🙂
LikeLike
This does precisely that. I think it’s great you limit gifts. We do now. Have a great Christmas!
LikeLike
Beautiful story, Pat. Oh, and Craig’s story in the comments brought tears to my eyes. How sweet. That’s what Christmas is all about. Have a wonderful Christmas, Pat. I hope all goes well for you with much success in 2014. We must catch up, sometime.
LikeLike
Yes, it was a wonderful story for children. And, Craig’s comments touched me deeply! Yes, we need to catch up. Merry Christmas!
LikeLike
A wonderful choice for Christmas.
LikeLike
I’m happy you enjoyed Peter’s book! It really is a perfect read with kids before Christmas! Thank you for the tweets.
LikeLike
We get to ask for 3 (not too big) gifts – because that’s what the wise-men brought. I think our family will love this book. 🙂
Merry Christmas Ms. Tilton!
LikeLike
Such a great tradition, Erik! Mrs. Isenoff does the same thing.
LikeLike
Sounds like a great book! And I love everything by Peter H. Reynolds!
LikeLike
It is a wonderful story. Short and true to his style.
LikeLike
A wonderful thing to remind everyone of…I see children receiving so much, so many presents, and they expect it. This looks like it is a reminder of good old-fashioned values about giving and receiving.
LikeLike
P.s. Happy New Year, Patricia.
LikeLike
Yes, I couldn’t agree more. We limit gifts and add charities instead. Peter’s book is a great reminder of what is important. Happy New Year to you!
LikeLike
Thanks for these wonderful comments – and the lovely spotlight on my book, Patricia!
LikeLike
Your story was a fun and important message kids would relate too. I’m happy you liked my review! Thanks for commenting!
LikeLike