What Is Given from the Heart
What’s inside...
This final picture book from author Patricia McKissack is a celebration of the joy of giving. The story follows James Otis and his Mama as they navigate their hardships with resilience and generosity. After a fire devastates the Temples' home, their church collects donations to help. James Otis contemplates what he can contribute to the Temples' 'love box', reflecting on the value of his possessions and the act of giving. This heartfelt narrative, combined with its theme of compassion, earned the book the Coretta Scott King – John Steptoe Illustrator Award for New Talent.
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
James Otis
Mama
Discussion points
How do you think James felt when he gave his gift? Can you think of a time you felt the same way?
Why do you think it's important to help others, even when we have our own problems?
What does the title 'What Is Given from the Heart' mean to you?
How can giving make us feel happy?
What are some ways we can help people in our community, like James and his mother did?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences to James' story. Ask them about times they have given or received gifts and how that made them feel.
Discuss the importance of empathy and kindness. Highlight how helping others can enrich our own lives, even in small ways.
Point out specific illustrations in the book that depict emotions and ask your child to describe what they think the characters are feeling in those moments.
After reading, consider brainstorming with your child about ways they can contribute positively to their community, fostering a spirit of generosity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of generosity
Explanation: In 'What Is Given from the Heart', the main character, James Otis, and his mother decide to give a heartfelt gift to a family who lost everything, despite their own financial struggles.
Real-World Application: Children learn that generosity is not about how much one gives, but the thought and love behind the gesture. They can apply this by sharing toys, time, or handmade gifts with others.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding towards others
Explanation: James Otis tries to think of what the little girl in the needy family would like before giving a gift. This shows his effort to understand and empathize with her situation.
Real-World Application: Children can practice putting themselves in someone else’s shoes to better understand their friends' feelings and perspectives, leading to deeper connections.
Example Lesson: Finding joy in difficult times
Explanation: Despite their hardships, James Otis and his mother find joy in helping others, which brings them a sense of fulfillment and peace.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches kids that even when times are tough, helping others can provide a source of happiness and personal satisfaction.
Example Lesson: Gratitude for what one has
Explanation: The story highlights how the protagonist appreciates what little he and his mother have and how they use these resources to help others.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be thankful for their possessions and circumstances, no matter how small, and understand the value of contentment.
Example Lesson: The impact of thoughtful actions
Explanation: The book illustrates how James Otis's thoughtful gift touches the hearts of the recipient family, showing the ripple effect of kindness.
Real-World Application: Kids can see that even small, thoughtful acts can make a big difference in others' lives, encouraging them to engage in acts of kindness regularly.