An Orange for Frankie

Patricia Polacco's "An Orange for Frankie" is a poignant Christmas tale set during the Great Depression, inspired by her own family history. The story centers on young Frankie, one of nine children, who is eagerly anticipating the traditional Christmas Eve oranges his father brings home. When a heavy snowstorm delays Pa's return, the family worries, and Frankie faces the possibility of a Christmas without this cherished tradition. Through a simple yet profound act of kindness, Frankie learns and demonstrates the true spirit of giving, reminding readers that love and generosity are the most precious gifts. This book is perfect for children aged 4-11, offering a gentle introduction to historical context while emphasizing timeless values.

A powerful Christmas taleby belovedNew York Timesbestselling author-illustrator Patricia Polacco. The Stowell family is abuzz with holiday excitement, and Frankie, the youngest boy, is the most excited of all. But there's a cloud over the joyous season: Tomorrow is Christmas Eve, and Pa hasn't returned yet from his trip to Lansing. He promised to bring back the oranges for the mantelpiece. Every year there are nine of them nestled among the evergreens, one for each of the children. But this year, heavy snows might mean no oranges . . . and, worse, no Pa!This is a holiday story close to Patricia Polacco's heart. Frankie was her grandmother's youngest brother, and every year she and her family remember this tale of a little boy who learned--and taught--an important lesson about giving, one Christmas long ago. "Holiday treats abound in a colorful and touching story of generosity and the ties that bind, based on a story of the author's great-uncle. "--Publishers Weekly "Autobiography melds with history in this poignant tale of a family tradition, set around Christmastime during the Great Depression."--Booklist"