Beautifully illustrated, this book tells the story of an abused and impoverished young girl. She was supposed to sell matches and knew if she returned home, she would be beaten for failing to sell any that day. She chose to stay on the streets that night. She saw visions as she tried to light matches to keep her warm. The book holds a sad ending. The story may not be for everyone, but there are lessons about death which can be taught. ( )

The illustrations of this edition are beautiful but the story is just tragic. It’s definitely not a cozy bedtime read. ( )

Just such a sad story I can't give it more stars! ( )

The little girl was told by her father to go otu and sell flowers and matches on the streets on New Year's Eve. Throughout her journey she used several matches to warm herself up and she started to see things when the matches were lit. She saw her grandmother in one of them and knew her grandmother was passing. She pleaded to go with her and when morning came and people found her on the street they assumed she was trying to warm herself. Meanwhile they had no idea she was now with her grandmother. This book has a very real and deep underlying message that you have to mkae sure is age appropriate for your class. ( )

Be warned one match can change a life. One single match can be the difference in life or death. One match can ignite your imagination. ( )