A Christmas Gift

Summary:

This story is sadly a reality for some students. Christmas is a time of giving, whether you are rich or poor. Panchito's family is forced to move before the Christmas time. His father is forced to beg for work and Panchito and his family members have to sleep in one bed cramped together. The only thing that Panchito has to look forward to is Christmas. After talking about the Christmas Eve story with his parents, he realizes that the Holy Family was poor also. On Christmas Eve Panchito sees his mother crying while wrapping her children's presents. The next day, she is crying again when she sees her sons' disappointment of their gifts. Panchito's father pulls out a new, embroidered handkerchief to wipe her tears. She becomes happy and the family realizes what is important around the holiday time.

Author: Francisco JimenezBorn in Mexico, Jimenez came to California with his family. He was forced to work as a child to support his family. He is currently a professor at Santa Clara University. He chooses to base his stories around young Hispanic hardships including his own autobiography, The Circuit. Jimenez and his published work have won many awards, including  the American Library Association Pura Belpre Honor Book Award.

Theme/Skill: Holidays, Hardships, Multi-Cultural

Grade Level: K-5

Pre-Reading Activity:

Before reading this story review with your students what holidays they celebrate in the December month. Depending on how diverse your class is, you could great an organizer to discuss the details of the different celebrations. Ask the students if they've ever experienced sadness during a time of celebration. Does the celebration help them relieve their sadness? How does Christmas and other holidays make us feel better?

Post-Reading Activity:

After reading The Christmas Gift discuss the feelings that go with the story. Revisit the question of feeling sadness during a holiday. Has there ever been a time your students overcame sorrow during a holiday? Does celebrations really bring family and friends together?

Reflection:

As a teacher of students with limited English skills I loved that the book was written in Spanish as well. Allowing the students to read in their first language would ensure deep comprehension and more meaningful discussions afterwards. One point that I wish that this book had a sequel about was Three Kings Day. Many of my Hispanic students enjoy this holiday more than Christmas.