The Giving Flower: The Story of the Poinsettia

by Alda P. Dobbs, Emily Mendoza (illustrator)

A lyrical picture book about the Poinsettia flower and the holiday traditions it has inspired

First, the flower grew wild—a yellow blossom with bracts that turn brilliant red in winter. The ancient Nahuas cultivated it; then it inspired Mexico's most famous Christmas legend. After the flower caught the eye of Mexico's first US ambassador, it became known as the Poinsettia. Yet it has many more names and traditions—and even more colors!

From Pura Belpre Honoree Alda P. Dobbs and illustrator Emily Mendoza comes a lyrical and vibrant picture book history of the flower that has given the world so much.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Nonfiction, Historical, History

40 pages, Hardcover

Published September 2, 2025

About the author

Alda P. Dobbs' upcoming novel, BAREFOOT DREAMS OF PETRA LUNA, was inspired by her great-grandmother's experience during the Mexican Revolution in 1913. Alda was born in a small town in northern Mexico and moved to San Antonio, Texas as a child. She studied physics and worked as an engineer before pursuing her love of storytelling. She is as passionate about connecting children to their past, their communities, different cultures, science, and nature as she is about writing.

Alda's writings have won various awards including the Barbara Deming Memorial Fund Award and the Sustainable Arts Foundation Grant. She has also written articles for Highlights Children's Magazine, Guideposts, and La Prensa newspaper.

Alda lives with her husband and two children outside Houston, Texas.

Reviews

[Melanie Dulaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just as Tomie de Paola did in his Newbery Honor book, the Legend of the Poinsettia, Alda P. Dobbs gives readers a beautiful look at the story of the young Mexican girl who brings a humble gift of weeds that grew near her home to baby Jesus during a Christmas celebration at church and the green plants miraculously produce beautiful red flowers that become known as Flor de Nochebuena. But Dobbs provides the history of the beautiful plant that occurs before the legend begins to be told in the 1600s and then extends the timeline of the red flowering plant past that giving highlights of the plant’s travels and changes in name and colors that go from Germany to the United States where it now has a day in December set aside to honor it. An illustrated timeline with greater detail than the lyrical main text and additional back matter elaborates on the history even more, extending the age range for this picture book. Well-written and illustrated by two talented Mexican-American women.

Thanks for sharing a signed arc with me, Alda P Dobbs, Sourcebooks and the 2025 Texas Library Association’s annual conference.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

The poinsettia flower is generally associated with the winter holidays, especially as it brings a bright, rich hue to an otherwise colorless landscape. Interestingly, the poinsettia flower is known by many names, and it has a rich history spanning back hundreds of years. From early Mexican cultures, to the time of European settlers, to the present day, the poinsettia has become a visual landmark of the winter holidays in cultures around the world. This accessible narrative nonfiction picture book is engaging for a wide range of ages. While the text itself is relatively brief and utilizes a predictable structure, the depth of information included within the narrative is profound, offering young readers and their caregivers a rich amount of detail through very few words. At the end of the book, a succinct historical narrative is included, which provides older readers with a more detailed description of the timeline described within the book itself. Additionally, a timeline anchors some of the pivotal moments in the poinsettia’s existence for readers who appreciate a visual interpretation of history. Throughout the book, illustrations depict the scenes described by the text using rich, saturated colors, transporting readers back to specific moments in time. These images feature the poinsettia throughout, and readers will enjoy identifying the poinsettia plants on each page. Rich with history and cultural relevance, this narrative nonfiction picture book is a beautiful addition to winter holiday collections for young readers and their families.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This lovely book shows the long history of the Poinsettia and the human changes in which it represented changes. I enjoyed it very much.
The illustrations by Trisha B. Waters are simple, perfect in bright colors, and clear.
Well suited for reading WITH someone any age including ESL, and great for gifting to everyone, but especially to a school, waiting room, or your local public library.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from SOURCEBOOKS Kids | Sourcebooks Jabberwocky via NetGalley. Pub Date Sep 02, 2025 ***** #review #goodreads
#TheGivingFlower by Alda P. Dobbs @aldapdobbs illustrated by Emily Mendoza @em_mendoza_ @sourcebookskids #NetGalley #storytelling #storygraph @librarythingofficial #legends #nahuas #childrensbookillustration #kidlit #culturalexploration @childrensbookcouncil #botany #bookbub #BooksForKids #ChildrensBooks #oraltraditions #multicultural #historicalperspective #cuetlaxochitl #family #love #tradition #mexicanheritage #newpicturebook #bookshop_org #bookshop_org_uk @indiebookstoresca #medicinal #flordenochebuena #poinsettia

[Shan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think that the central themes of this book are really great, but the overall book could have been a little more exciting. In other words, I was a little bored by this book. Maybe it's because I am personally not a history person. However, that being said, I don't think a whole lot of kids are history nerds, either. My recommendation? The story about Pepita and the poinsettia was really interesting, and it didn't seem like it got as much attention as it should have. Personally, I think that making this specific story a bigger and more central part of this book would add personality and entertainment value to the overall book. Despite this book being a bit dull, it had lots of good stuff in it! The writing definitely had a personalized voice/tone to it, and I found myself thinking, "Wow, this book is really well-written". Bravo for that! Lastly, the illustrations were absolutely beautiful! The illustrator effortlessly captured the beauty of the poinsettia on numerous pages, and this inspires readers to have a renewed appreciation for the flower.

[Jesus Gonzalez · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Kids for providing an ARC for an honest review.

I remember seeing this book during the TLA(Texas Library Association) convention but wasn't able to get my hands on a physical copy.

Fast forward to now, having read the books, this is what I think. As an adult who loves history, I found this book to be good. Not great, but good. I approach these books through the lens of what a kid might say or feel, and they may find the content uninteresting due to the heavy load of history and the length of the reading experience. I'm not saying it is a bad book, but working with kids daily, I have seen firsthand that history is not their favorite subject unless it involves historical fiction.

I do think if the focus had shifted to Pepita and her story, the kids could be more engaged while still learning about the history of "la flor de nochebuena".

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who knew someone needed the story of the poinsettia but here it is in picture book format explaining the origins and cultivation of this flower over time from the places in Mexico to the front door of the White House now not only in the red that made it famous but white and pink too.

The deep colors immerse you and the repetition of the discovery and multiple stories keeps a reader turning the pages-- it won't surprise you that there are several other names for it yet somehow the white guy discovery name stuck. I didn't realize the religious connection to it being used in holiday decorations and they spent a few pages focused on how sets of news and talk shows use them, putting them in the limelight as a holiday flower too. Super fascinating with loads of information.

[Laura Resau · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this lyrically written, fascinating exploration of the significance of the poinsettia throughout history, beginning in the time of the ancient Nahuas and stretching to present day. I loved learning about the botanical science behind the flower... these details were organically and artfully woven into the poetic narrative. And I adored how the book invites readers in, making us feel inspired to connect, create beauty, and reflect on the deep roots that bind American and Mexican cultures in the spirit of generosity and love. This is my favorite kind of picture book-- poetic and welcoming, sharing history and science, uplifting our spirits and hearts. I encourage you to grab copies now for the children in your life!

[Hillary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a beautifully illustrated picture book that tells the story of the poinsettia flower and its significance in Mexican culture. I never knew anything about its history and happy to have learned it from such a magical book. The book not only explores the history of the poinsettia but also intertwines it with holiday traditions, making it a great seasonal read as well. The illustrations are colorful and lively and I felt like they complemented the text beautifully.

This book is a great way to introduce kids to cultural stories and the beauty of nature. It would be great for any setting like a home library, classrooms, etc. I think it would also make a wonderful gift as well.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a lovely book and a way to teach children about not only the poinsettia flower itself, but how it came to become a commercial success and the role it plays in the culture of Mexico. This would be a good classroom read close to the holidays and could be used in a variety of ways, a history lesson, an art lesson, a read-aloud with lots of discussion.

The book is beautifully illustrated thanks to Emily Mendoza's pictures. A great way to discuss the cultures of a specific country and the beauties of nature.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and Sourcebooks Kids/Sourcebooks Jabberwocky, in exchange for a review.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE GIVING FLOWER provides readers with a beautifully illustrated and detailed history of the poinsettia. The book traces the history of this well-known flower, starting with the ancient Nahuas use of poinsettia for medicine and decoration and culminating with the story of how it became associated with the holiday season. The book successfully describes both changes in the flower itself over time and its cultural connections through history, especially its role in Mexican culture. Back matter and a detailed timeline provide additional depth to the content in the text. With its unique take on this traditional holiday symbol, this book makes a great addition to holiday story collections.

[Kimberly Zavala · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautifully illustrated history of the evolution of the poinsettia. Dobbs breaks down the lively flower's intricate history into a sweet explanation on each page. Beginning with the use of the flower by the ancient Nahuas, when it grew wild, and ending with its present day form as a potted plant given as a gift, Dobbs crafts a story that all will enjoy and learn something from. Back matter includes more specific information, an explanation of its multiple names, and an illustrated timeline.

Thank you, Sourcebooks, for the lovely ARC!

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an electronic ARC from SOURCEBOOKS Kids through NetGalley.
Mendoza's vividly colored illustrations enhance this story by Dobbs. They mesh together to share the history of the poinsettia at a level elementary readers will appreciate and understand. The informative text at the end offers further facts for readers to explore. Told in a relaxed story style. Definitely one to add to the holiday season.

[Ember Air · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful and in-depth story covering the history and cultural significance of the flower we now call Poinsettia. The illustrations add depth to the story and could engage even the youngest of readers.
From honoring the origins of the poinsettias cultivation and appreciation by the Nahua people (Aztecs), to the time of colorized television, all the way to the U.S. Congress declaring December 12th as National Poinsettia Day in 2002.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Sourcebooks Jabberwocky and Netgalley for the digital arc.
This has the perfect theme for the holidays, the illustrations pop with color, and the scientific informattion was interesting . Unfortunately the historical aspects of the poinsettia noted briefly in the text seemed out of place and did not make sense until I read the back matter, which was wonderful.

[Jolene Gutiérrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautiful story tracks the history of how long poinsettias have been beloved in Mexico and how they came to be an important part of the holiday season in the United States as well. Lyrically written with rich back matter and gorgeous illustrations, this book is highly recommended for all homes, schools, and libraries!

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Giving Flower: The Story of the Poinsettia (Hardcover)
by Alda P. Dobbs
The deeply religious use of Poinsettia flowers did not start with Christianity. The red flower has been adopted by many cultures for religious purposes. This book explores these historical uses and how it affects the current use and propagation of the plants.

[Libby · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun look at the history and myths surrounding the flower that has become synonymous with Christmas. I learned a lot in this picture book that would make an interesting read aloud.

Review based on a digital ARC received through NetGalley.

[Danielle Mccoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this eBook from netGalley for a honest review.

I loved this picture book and all I learned from it about the poinsettia flower. There is so much history and so many stories associated with this flower I learned a lot more then I ever have before.

[The Delulu Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an interesting read, I had no idea that this christmas flowers have such a history!
Interesting, beautiful, enriching, everything a good childrens book should have.
Its even a learning experience for parents!

[Beck · Rating 4 out of 5]

Netgalley ARC - a story of the poinsettia plant that touches on history, culture, medicinal uses, and current symbolism. I like the idea of following the history of one plant.

[Nichole · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great and interesting history!

[Melanie Gaum · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC from Netgalley.

[Dawn Evans Editions Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story of the poinsettia flower - complete with a history lesson and how the flower has become a tradition in many cultures. Lovely illustrations.

[Brandan Radford · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received an ARC at a conference. Taking the concept of a history of a flower and turning it into the lesson about what your gift to society will be, is as cute touch.