An Orange for Frankie

AD780L; Grades K – 4

ISBN-10:039924302X

Christmas oranges were a special treat for the Stowell family during the Great Depression. The youngest child, Frankie, could hardly wait for the special oranges his Pa would bring to the family on Christmas Eve. Pa’s delayed return had everyone worried about the Christmas oranges and about Pa.  As the story unfolds the reader learns of Frankie’s family's generosity to all despite their own meager resources. Frankie secretly gives away his own sweater to a man out in the cold in a generous act of kindness. Later he loses his own precious Christmas orange and decides to confess to his mother about his missing sweater and the orange. The family rallies to make a special surprise for Frankie. This heart-warming tale will delight readers. Frankie’s appreciation for a simple gift along with his generous spirit will inspire readers (and listeners) of all ages.   

Polacco is both author and illustrator.  Her illustrations reflect her trademark watercolor and pencil illustrations.  She uses bright colors to contrast muted ones to highlight details in her scenes. She draws from her own family history for this poignant story.  

About Patricia Polacco: As a child she struggled with reading and credits a special teacher with helping her learn to read in about the 5t grade (see Thank You, Mr. Falker).  She has written and illustrated more than 100 books for children.  She has received numerous awards including International Reading Association Award, Society of Children’s Book Writer’s and Illustrators, Jane Adams Peace Association Award, Parent’s Choice Award and many others.  You can hear an interview with Polacco on the Reading Rockets website https://www.readingrockets.org/books/interviews/polacco. 

Pathways connections: Friends and Family; Personal Feelings and Growth

Reviewed by Cheryl The, PhD

Professor of Education

Southwestern Adventist University

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