Miracle of the Poinsettia

Last updated Monday, November 24, 2003

Author: Brian Cavanaugh
Illustrator: Dennis Rockhill
Date of Publication: 2001
ISBN: 0809166879
Grade Level: 2nd
Date(s) Used: December 2003

Synopsis: This bilingual story is a retelling of a traditional Mexican legend--a small girl has no gift to give the Christ child at the Christmas Eve procession. She gathers up weeds from the roadside and because she gives them from her heart, they are miraculously topped with glorious red flowers.

Discussion topics for before reading:

• Is anyone from Mexico, or know anyone from Mexico?
• Do you know how people who live in Mexico celebrate Christmas?
• Why do we put a star on top of the christmas tree? What else could we put there?
• What is a miracle?
• What do you do when you want to give a gift, but you can’t buy one?

Craft ideas:

• Make a pot of poinsettia flowers, or a wreath. (Make ahead a template leaf/flower)
• Make a picture of something that you would like to give to Maria.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don’t have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!