Book Summary
In the aftermath of World War II, many people were short on food, clothing, and basic necessities. One day, Katje receives a box from America. She is surprised, but she is more surprised when she opens it to find soap, wool socks, and chocolate. She sends a letter to Rosie, who sent the box, to thank her for the unexpected gifts and mentions that sugar is scarce. Soon, Katje receives another box, and another. Soon, the whole town benefits from Katja's boxes.
APA Reference of Book
Fleming, C. (2003). Boxes for Katje. New York, NY: Melanie Kroupa Books.
Impressions
I really enjoyed this book. The story of poverty after the war is told simply so that young readers can understand that the characters had little, but without too much detail that would make the story too sad. The gifts that Katje, her family, and the town receive will inspire other children to generosity. The story ends on a hopeful note that leaves the reader certain that everything works out well for the town and that life gets easier. There is also a sense that Rosie benefits from the exchange of letters and friendship that develops during the story. The author's note about her mother inspiring the book may be my favorite part. Knowing that the book is based on actual events elevates the story and makes it more inspiring.
Professional Review
"Gr 1-4- "After the war, there was little left in the tiny Dutch town of Olst. The townspeople lived on cabbages and seed potatoes. They patched and repatched their worn-thin clothing, and they went without soap or milk, sugar or new shoes." Set in post-World War II Holland and based on an actual incident, this story illuminates a little-known episode in history. To offset the devastation left by the war, the Children's Aid Society and other relief agencies encouraged American students to send boxes of basic necessities to victimized children. When Katje in Olst receives such a box from Rosie in Mayfield, IN, the two begin a correspondence that eventually triggers a relief effort that enables this small Dutch town to make it through an unbearably frigid winter. Fleming does an estimable job of bringing time and place into focus, and presents endearing, fleshed-out characters with whom readers can easily empathize and sympathize. Dressen-McQueen's warm-toned colored-pencil, oil-pastel, and acrylic illustrations accurately reflect dress, architecture, and other details, and the facial expressions and body postures of the characters effectively convey their joy in these much-appreciated gifts. A good choice for storyhour as well as for independent reading and an excellent discussion starter."
Oliff, G. (2003). [Review of Boxes for Katje by Candace Fleming]. School Library Journal, 49(9), 177-178. Retrieved from: http://www.slj.com/
Library Uses
This book would make an interesting addition to a story time program about heroes. Most people think of super heroes or maybe community helpers and military when they think of heroes, but Rosie is a hero to Katje and her town. The books shows that anyone can be a hero.
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