Gift of Nothing

The Gift of Nothing by Patrick McDonnell

I ran across this book in the new books section of the library. Its just a kid’s picture book but it had an interesting title so I picked it up and skimmed through it. What I discovered was a delightful story of a kitty determined to find the perfect present for his doggie friend. But the friend had all he needed so kitty went in search of “nothing” to give him. It seems he couldn’t find “nothing” anywhere until a light bulb went off and he realized what “nothing” was. In the end he gives the gift of nothing and together they enjoy everything.

This little story seems like a great way to introduce children to the idea of enoughness and a way to inculcate the desire to enjoy what you have without having to acquire more. This story relates the idea of appreciating what you have. When a child is blessed with so many things its hard to be appreciative without taking things for granted. This story seems like it would be a great spring board for this discussion with young children. -Flourish