What do you think it means to offer your best gift?

This is a discussion prompt for The Clown of God by Tomie dePaola. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

How do you think the clown felt about his performance?

This is a discussion prompt for The Clown of God by Tomie dePaola. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What makes someone's gift special, even if it's different from others?

This is a discussion prompt for The Clown of God by Tomie dePaola. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

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The Clown of God

Name: The Clown of God
ISBN: 9781863881746

by Tomie dePaola

In this moving retelling of a classic legend, a humble juggler offers his final, miraculous performance as a gift of love and devotion to the Christ Child.

About This Book

First published in the USA in hardback in 1978, this is a retelling of an old French legend. De Paola's illustrations have a colourful Italian Renaissance setting. Picture book format, all ages.

Concepts

Self-Confidence & Identity Creativity & Imagination Empathy & Kindness Joy & Gratitude Love & Family Resilience & Perseverance Being Different Growing Up

Wonderlit Review

This picture book retells an old French legend about a clown who offers his unique talent as a gift. Set against a colorful Italian Renaissance backdrop, the story gently explores themes of self-worth, devotion, and the idea that true gifts come from the heart, regardless of their perceived value. It's a poignant and heartwarming tale, perfect for sparking conversations about what it means to give one's best. Parents can use it to discuss different forms of talent and the importance of sincerity.