The Perfect Present
on Goodreads (43)
What’s inside...
Tom and Mot are best friends who exchange imaginative gifts on their birthday. Tom gives Mot what could be a feather from the most spectacular bird in the world, while Mot gives Tom what might be the smallest planet in the universe. As they continue to exchange grand gifts like whales, dolphins, rivers, and mountains, they spend a joyful day playing together. This story beautifully illustrates the power of imagination and the value of friendship, making it an ideal book for sharing.
Age
3-5
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes a gift 'perfect'? Can you think of a perfect gift you've given or received?
How did the characters in the book show kindness and thoughtfulness to one another?
What did you notice about how the characters felt when they received their presents?
How would you help a friend who was feeling sad like the characters in the book?
Can you think of a time when a simple act of kindness made a big difference?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on their personal experiences with giving and receiving gifts to relate to the story.
Ask your child to describe the emotions of the characters as they discuss the book, aiding in emotional development and empathy.
Prompt your child to imagine alternative endings or different gifts the characters could have given, boosting their creativity and critical thinking.
Discuss the importance of thoughtfulness and kindness, tying the book’s themes to real-life scenarios your child might encounter.
Reinforce the message that it's the thought behind the gift that counts, not the material value, to instill values of gratitude and contentment.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of sharing
Explanation: In 'The Perfect Present', the main characters demonstrate the joy of sharing as they gift each other presents that bring happiness.
Real-World Application: Children learn that sharing with friends and family can strengthen relationships and bring joy to others.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The story showcases characters empathizing with each other's feelings and desires, which helps them to choose the most thoughtful gifts.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this by recognizing emotions in others and responding with kindness and consideration in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and thoughtfulness
Explanation: Choosing the perfect present requires the characters to think creatively and consider what would make their friend happy, rather than just picking any gift.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think outside the box and be considerate when participating in gift-giving occasions or when responding to others' needs.
Example Lesson: The joy of surprise
Explanation: The book highlights the delight in surprising someone with a gift that is both unexpected and perfect, reinforcing the value of thoughtful gestures.
Real-World Application: Children learn that adding elements of surprise in acts of kindness can amplify happiness and strengthen bonds.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for others' efforts
Explanation: Characters demonstrate gratitude for the thought put into their gifts, not just the material value of the gifts themselves.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate the effort behind actions, fostering a sense of gratitude and valuing personal relationships over materialistic aspects.