Amazing Christmas Extravaganza
What’s inside...
In 'Amazing Christmas Extraganza' by David Shannon, the story revolves around Mr. Merriweather, who loves Christmas and goes to extreme lengths to decorate his house, outdoing himself and his neighbors each year. His extravagant displays attract widespread attention, but also create tension with his neighbor, Mr. Clack, who prefers a more traditional and modest celebration. As Mr. Merriweather's decorations become increasingly elaborate, he loses sight of the true spirit of the holiday. Eventually, he realizes that the most important aspect of Christmas is spending time with loved ones and not the grandeur of the decorations. This leads to a heartwarming conclusion where the true meaning of Christmas is embraced, and the community comes together in celebration.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes the Christmas Extravaganza amazing?
How do you feel about the way the characters celebrate Christmas?
Can you imagine your own version of a Christmas Extravaganza? What would it include?
Why do you think the neighbors reacted the way they did to the Extravaganza?
What does this story teach us about sharing joy with others during the holiday season?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe their favorite parts of the Extravaganza using vivid language and details.
Ask your child how they would feel if something similar happened in your neighborhood, fostering empathy and personal connection.
Discuss the importance of traditions and how they can be both personal and shared with a community.
Link the story’s themes to your family’s own holiday experiences, emphasizing the shared joy and community spirit.
Prompt your child to think about the broader message of the book, such as the spirit of giving and celebration, and how they can apply these lessons in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of moderation
Explanation: In 'Amazing Christmas Extravaganza,' Mr. Merriweather goes overboard with Christmas decorations, causing stress and chaos. This demonstrates the consequences of excess.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to enjoy activities without overindulgence, understanding that sometimes 'less is more' and can lead to more meaningful experiences.
Example Lesson: Respect for others' opinions
Explanation: The story shows how the neighbors have different opinions about Mr. Merriweather’s decorations. It teaches that everyone has different tastes and that’s okay.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate diversity in thoughts and opinions, fostering respect and open-mindedness in group settings like school or playgrounds.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community
Explanation: Despite the initial spectacle, the story culminates in the community coming together, highlighting the importance of unity and support.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the value of community involvement and the strength of familial bonds during festivities or communal gatherings.
Example Lesson: Being true to oneself
Explanation: Mr. Merriweather eventually realizes that the joy of the season comes from within and not from external validation. This showcases the importance of authenticity.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value their own feelings and beliefs, and to make choices that truly make them happy rather than seeking approval from others.