The Gift of the Magi
Aladdin Fiction Series
on Goodreads (98,883)
What’s inside...
O'Henry's most famous short story, 'The Gift of the Magi' has a universal appeal that extends beyond the Christmas season. Set in New York at the turn of the century, the story centers on a young couple and the sacrifices each must make in order to buy the other a gift. The pictures by the award-winning Austrian illustrator Lisbeth Zwerger are infused with the poignancy and delight of this simple tale about the rewards of unselfish love. This picture book version of one of the most famous Christmas stories ever written has been the most successful of Lisbeth Zwerger's books published in this country. Zwerger's simple, stark illustrations capture the human drama of O. Henry's story, in which a young husband and wife each sell a great treasure to buy the other a gift. A timeless reminder of how love matters more than any other human circumstance, this book captures the true spirit of Christmas.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-10
Length
26 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Jim and Della sold their most prized possessions for each other?
What does the story teach us about the value of gifts and giving?
How do you feel about the choices Jim and Della made, and would you have done something similar?
What does 'sacrifice' mean to you and can you think of a time you sacrificed something for someone else?
How do you think Jim and Della felt at the end of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing a personal story about a time you gave or received a meaningful gift to help your child relate to the theme.
Encourage your child to think about the characters’ feelings, asking how they might feel in a similar situation.
Highlight the theme of selflessness in the story and discuss its importance in your family’s values.
Ask your child to draw or describe what they think an ideal gift would be, emphasizing the thought behind it rather than its material value.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of selflessness
Explanation: In 'The Gift of the Magi,' both main characters sacrifice their most prized possessions to buy a Christmas gift for the other, demonstrating extreme acts of selflessness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of putting others before themselves and the joy that comes from giving, which can help them develop empathy and generosity.
Example Lesson: The true meaning of gift-giving
Explanation: The story highlights that the worth of a gift lies not in its monetary value but in the thought and sacrifice behind it.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate the effort behind gifts they receive and encourages them to think creatively and meaningfully when giving to others.
Example Lesson: The impact of miscommunication
Explanation: The irony in 'The Gift of the Magi' stems from the lack of communication between the couple, each unaware of the other's sacrifices, leading to an unexpected outcome.
Real-World Application: It underscores the importance of open communication to avoid misunderstandings. Kids can learn to express their thoughts and intentions clearly and listen to others.
Example Lesson: Value of personal sacrifice
Explanation: Both characters, Della and Jim, make personal sacrifices out of love, which ultimately brings them closer despite the ironic twist.
Real-World Application: Children can understand that sometimes personal sacrifices are necessary to support and cherish loved ones, strengthening relationships.
Example Lesson: Appreciating inner values over materialism
Explanation: Despite losing their valued possessions, Della and Jim end the story richer in love and understanding for each other, showing that material goods are not the greatest wealth.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children value emotional and relational wealth above material possessions and understand happiness is not derived from objects.