The Best Kind of Gift

by Kathi Appelt, Paul Brett Johnson (Illustrator)

The folks in Dogwood are abuzz with excitement when a new parson comes to lead their congregation. The whole town gets busy preparing a pounding -- where everyone brings "a pound o' this and a pound o' that" to make Brother Harper feel more at home. Jory Timmons wants so badly to give the perfect gift to Brother Harper. But it seems that he is too small to do anything right! He can't light a stove to bake a pie like Mama, and he isn't strong enough to carry a sack of corn like his older brother, Thomas. But in this lively tale, loaded with country charm, Jory Timmons learns that the best gifts are given when he is simply being himself.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens

32 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 2003

About the author

Lives in College Station, TX with husband Ken and four adorable cats.

Two sons, both musicians.

Serves on the faculty at Vermont College of Fine Arts in the MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults Program.

Reviews

[Cheryl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not just for Christians, of course. But even though it had nothing to do with Christmas, it's about the joy of finding just the right gift, and so would make good reading during the Thanksgiving preparations. A little longer than most picture-books.

[Madison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Personal Reaction: I think this book is really sweet and shows the value and effort put into heartfelt gifts. The detailed illustrations are great as they follow each person’s definition of a gift. The pictures catch the warm and friendly feeling of story.
Purposes for Enrichment: This story shows that gifts are very important to some people and that they can mean all sorts of things. It shows that thought is very important when it comes to giving as he gives an unusual gift!
Curricular Purposes: This book would be a fun read during a time of gift-giving like the holidays. It can help teach the value in a gift is not always money.

[Reilly Beaman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is on my list because it portrays a cute story of a child wanting to make someone feel loved and welcomed. I think this story truly shows the heart of a child and the lengths they will go for others. I also think this story teaches and important lesson on gifts and the meaning behind a gift that comes from the heart.

[Dawn]

Wonderful story !