“The most truly generous persons are those who give silently without hope of praise or reward.” – Carol Ryrie Brink
Generosity is a willingness to give or share… What does generosity look like in reality across the ages and stages of our lifetime? There are many ways it can show up as both thought and action from toddlers, to grade schoolers, to teens, and to adults.
According to Google, here are some other common traits associated with a generous person:
- They’re satisfied.
- They say “yes” more than they say “no.”
- They ask, “What can I do for you?” and mean it.
- They don’t talk about “their” possessions.
These traits can be a tall order for the littlest ones, but they can be demonstrated in many ways by the caring adults in their lives, so that a generous perspective becomes woven into the way they do life. Reading about characters who make generous choices, whether on the playground, in the family, or in the complex world of teen relationships, can also help families to have rich conversations with one another about how generosity shows up in their world. Enjoy the rich stories in this theme together and let the talk begin!
Below you’ll find books, activities, and resources that are appropriate for various ages around the concept of “Generosity”.
What’s The Most Generous Gesture You Can Make?
– Beth H, NEW BOOK JOY Guest Contributor
Readings & Resources
SEARCH BY GRADE LEVEL…
PRE-K – KINDERGARTEN
PRE-K – KINDERGARTEN
1ST – 2ND GRADE
3RD – 5TH GRADE
MIDDLE SCHOOL
HIGH SCHOOL
Food for Thought
COMING SOON!
Bridging Books & Art
There is nothing better than creating images in your mind, while reading. It is almost like experiencing a movie, while getting immersed in a novel! Not only does it help you feel closer to the characters, but helps you become more excited about what is going to happen next. Talk about a great way to build your own suspense!
Art is also a wonderful connection with reading because it can help you get more attuned with the book’s topics or themes.
You have the opportunity to look at something visual and ponder about what the reading adventure will offer. You have the opportunity to make various connections between what you see in the piece of art and what you read in the book.
We’re excited to include a piece of art with each theme, in order for families to enjoy something visual along with their reading conversations and experiences!
NOW HIGHLIGHTING
Generosity by Antonia Rupert
For the Changemakers theme, our friend Antonia created this thoughtful painting for New Book Joy…
“This ink drawing portrays the idea of generosity. Simply stated, the idea is of one hand to another – giving what one has to another. It is love, charity and compassion. In the giving, connection is made no matter what the giver or receiver looks like. Generosity is the foundation.” – Antonia Rupert
Find out more about this artist in her bio below:
“Hi there, Antonia Ruppert here! I am an artist and have been painting for over 25 years. I create paintings that tell a story. I fell in love with books as a child after reading stories like A Birthday for Francis and Amelia Bedelia. Chicago born, the oldest of six siblings, I recall drawing horses and people on tons of pink paper that was gifted to me by the dentist office. Now I paint on canvas and paper using all kinds of paint. I’m inspired by people, nature, my children and grandchildren who often find themselves in my creations.”
Featured in the Museum of Science and Industry Black Creativity Exhibition, Moraine Valley CC Regional Showcase and the Dupage Art League’s Best of the Best Exhibition, my favorite paintings and murals can be found in numerous regional venues. These include: University of Chicago Hospitals, Chicago Public Library, Acorn Public Library, Austin Childcare Network, Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Forest Park Park District, Berwyn North School District 98, Elmwood Park Public Library, Grand Prairie Services, Living Springs Community Church, Markham Public Library, Oak Forest Park District and the Oak Park Area Arts Council.
“It is from these experiences that I seek to uplift my entire community with artistic expression.”
Check out her artwork on Instagram @antoniaruppertart and her website www.antoniaruppert.com!
Family Activity
As an English teacher, I stumble across students who look at a piece of art and move on. They do not always pause and question. They only see what is on the surface, but do not dive into the visual experience.
When I have my students analyze a piece of art, I have them answer a series of questions, in order for the picture to be more than just random shapes and colors. The questions may focus on the visual aspect, as well as the story and/or tone. When teens take time to ponder and see the painting, everything comes alive!
It is easy to glance at a picture, but not take time to notice its beauty and meaning. Sure, it takes extra time to pause and answer questions about the picture, but questioning helps with awareness, curiosity, and wonderment.
Video Connection
Watch this YouTube video and discuss the following questions: Why do you think the man does not want to help others at the beginning of the short film? How does the older woman help the man see otherwise? How do you think the man feels when he gives to others? What are ways you can be giving to others?
FOR FULL ACCESS TO ADDITIONAL READINGS, RESOURCES & ACTIVITIES, CHECK OUT OUR FAMILY BOOK CLUB subscription BOXES…
– Connie O & Mandy G, NEW BOOK JOY Founders
Conversation
What books inspire YOU & your family (or close friends) to practice generosity?
Let’s get a conversation started in the comments below!