Piece by Piece: Ernestine's Gift for President Roosevelt

Reach for this book when your child is feeling discouraged by what they lack or when you want to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and resourcefulness. Piece by Piece tells the moving true story of Ernestine Guerrero, a young Mexican American girl living through the Great Depression. When her family receives government food aid, Ernestine decides to thank President Roosevelt by building him a beautiful clock case out of the very wood from the crates that fed her family. It is a masterful exploration of how creativity can bloom even in times of scarcity. This story is ideal for children ages 5 to 9, offering a gentle but honest look at financial hardship. Rather than focusing on what is missing, the narrative highlights Ernestine's pride, her artistic talent, and her desire to give back. It is a powerful choice for parents who want to model how a thankful heart and a little imagination can turn discarded scraps into a meaningful gift.