The Clown of God



Last updated Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Author: Tomie dePaola
Illustrator: Tomie dePaola
Date of Publication:
ISBN:
Grade Level: 5th    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Dec. 2001, Dec. 2000

Synopsis: A once-famous Italian juggler, now old and a beggar, gives one final performance before a statue of Our Lady and the Holy Child.

Note to readers:
•  Hear and see this book read aloud on YouTube

Discussion topics:
•  (We read this book before we started creating discussion topics in our reading guides.)

Craft ideas:
•  What would your gift be? Draw.
•  Try face painting, or learn to juggle.
•  Divide a piece of paper into two sections. What connections are there between the gift the clown gave, and the gifts we give at Christmas? What are the differences? Draw or write.

*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!