Boxes for Katje is based on the experience of author Candace Fleming’s mother, who sent a small box containing toothpaste, socks and
soap to war-devasted Europe in May 1945. This gesture was one of many made by
Americans, individually and through relief agencies, to Europeans enduring the horrible
effects of World War II. In this heartwarming picture book, young Katje, who
lives in the Dutch town of Olst, receives an unexpected box from Mayfield,
Indiana, USA. Mama and Postman Kleinhoonte are almost as excited as she when it is found to contain soap, socks and chocolate; Katje generously shares the chocolate. The
package also contains a letter from the American girl who sent it. Of course,
Katje responds and again, unexpectedly, receives a bigger box from Rosie in
Indiana. This exchange of letters and boxes continues through the summer and
fall, with each box getting bigger until, in the middle of the harsh winter
when Katje’s village is suffering deeply from the cold, many boxes filled with
food and clothing – and chocolate – arrive for the townspeople. These gifts make a huge
difference to the grateful recipients. When the snows melt, Katje and her
mother choose just the right way to show their thanks: they send tulip bulbs
from their gardens to Indiana so that the next spring Mayfield could be mantled
with colorful Dutch tulips! Illustrations by Stacey Dressen-McQueen are alive with action and intriguing details. Perhaps it goes without saying that we cannot
underestimate the importance of sharing resources and kindness across the globe
in today’s world, too. Ages 4-8.
