The Gift of the Magi facts for kids

"The Gift of the Magi" is a very famous short story written by O. Henry. It was first published in a newspaper called The New York Sunday World on December 10, 1905. This heartwarming story is known for its surprising ending and its message about true love and giving.

What is The Gift of the Magi About?

The story is about a young, loving couple named Della and Jim Dillingham Young. They are very poor but deeply in love. It's Christmas Eve, and they both want to buy a special gift for each other. The problem is, they have almost no money.

Della's Big Decision

Della has only $1.87 saved. She feels sad because it's not enough to buy a nice gift for Jim. Della has one beautiful thing she is very proud of: her long, flowing hair that reaches below her knees. It's like a waterfall of brown.

• She decides to sell her hair to a wig maker named Madame Sofronie.
• She gets $20 for her hair, which is a lot of money for her.
• With this money, Della buys a beautiful platinum chain for Jim's prized possession: his gold pocket watch.

Jim's Secret Sacrifice

Jim also has a treasured item: a gold watch that belonged to his father and grandfather. It's very old and special. He loves Della very much and wants to get her a wonderful Christmas gift too.

• Jim also makes a big sacrifice for Della.
• He sells his precious gold watch.
• With the money, he buys a set of fancy combs for Della's beautiful long hair. She had always wanted these combs.

The Surprising Gifts

When Jim comes home, Della is nervous about her short hair. They exchange their gifts.

• Della gives Jim the platinum chain for his watch.
• Jim gives Della the beautiful combs for her hair.
• They both realize what has happened: Della sold her hair for the watch chain, and Jim sold his watch for the combs.

Neither of them can use their gifts right away. But they understand the deep love behind each sacrifice.

What Does 'Magi' Mean?

The title of the story, "The Gift of the Magi," refers to the Magi from the Bible. The Magi were the "Three Wise Men" who brought gifts to baby Jesus. They were known for their wisdom and for giving precious gifts.

• O. Henry compares Della and Jim to the Magi.
• Even though their gifts couldn't be used, their actions showed true wisdom and love.
• The story teaches that the most valuable gifts are not about money, but about love and sacrifice for others.

About the Author: O. Henry

O. Henry was the pen name of William Sydney Porter. He was an American writer famous for his short stories.

• He was born in 1862 and died in 1910.
• Many of his stories are known for their clever plot twists and surprise endings.
• "The Gift of the Magi" is one of his most famous and beloved works.