Boxes for Katje is a heartwarming and poignant story that brings to light the power of generosity, kindness, and global community. Set in post-World War II Holland, Candace Fleming tells the tale of a young Dutch girl named Katje, who lives in a town devastated by the war’s aftermath. Katje receives a small but meaningful care package from Rosie, a girl living in America. What begins as a simple exchange grows into a beautiful and transformative friendship between two families across continents. The author masterfully blends historical context with a narrative that feels personal, relevant, and deeply touching.
One of the most beautiful aspects of this book is its message about how one act of kindness can create a ripple effect. What starts as a small package with soap, socks, and chocolate—luxuries in Katje’s world—quickly turns into a chain of goodwill. As Rosie sends more packages, Katje’s town begins to thrive. The town, in turn, responds with letters and gifts for Rosie’s family, showing that kindness, even in the smallest gestures, can change lives. Fleming perfectly captures this give-and-take of generosity with simple, yet powerful storytelling.
The illustrations by Stacey Dressen-McQueen enhance the depth of the story, providing richly detailed visuals that bring the post-war world of Holland to life. The muted, earthy tones of the illustrations reflect the hardships faced by Katje and her community, while bursts of color, like the bright red sweater Rosie sends, symbolize hope and the renewal of life. The artwork beautifully complements the text, and each page feels carefully crafted to evoke both the time period and the emotional journey of the characters.
The themes of this book are universal and timeless—empathy, gratitude, and the human spirit’s capacity for kindness. For younger readers, the story of Boxes for Katje offers a valuable lesson in understanding what it means to give, even when you have little to spare. For adult readers, it serves as a reminder of the impact we can have on others, whether near or far. Fleming’s narrative makes this a must-read for teaching children about history, compassion, and the way small actions can lead to something much larger.
Fleming also based the story on actual events, making it all the more compelling. At the end of the book, an author’s note details how real-life care packages were sent from America to Europe after the war, adding historical relevance and emotional weight to the story. This connection to real events helps to anchor the story, reminding us of the shared humanity that transcended borders in a time of great need.
Boxes for Katje is not just a beautifully illustrated picture book; it’s a moving testament to the generosity of spirit. It shows how people from different cultures and countries can come together to make the world a better place. Candace Fleming and Stacey Dressen-McQueen have created a touching, enduring story that will resonate with readers of all ages, long after the final page is turned.
Questions to ask while reading:
- How do the care packages from Rosie impact Katje and her town?
- Why do you think the townspeople were so eager to reciprocate Rosie’s kindness?
- How does the story of Katje and Rosie show the importance of global connections and empathy?
Boxes for Katje on Amazon