An Ali Cat Christmas
I Can Read Level 1 Series
What’s inside...
In 'An Ali Cat Christmas' by Dandi Daley Mackall, we follow the story of a young girl named Ali Cat who is preparing for Christmas with great excitement. However, she learns that the holiday isn't just about receiving gifts, but also about giving and sharing with others. Through various experiences and encounters, Ali Cat discovers the true spirit of Christmas and the joy that comes from generosity and kindness. The book is a heartwarming tale that teaches children the importance of compassion and the value of thinking of others during the holiday season. When they are snowed in at Granny's house, Katy realizes that Christmas is about much, much more than gifts.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made Ali Cat decide to help find the lost Christmas presents?
How did the other characters in the story react to Ali Cat's ideas?
What would you have done if you were in Ali Cat’s place?
How do you think the story would have changed if Ali Cat hadn’t been there?
Why is it important to help others, especially during the holiday season?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Ali Cat's shoes, fostering empathy and understanding. Highlight the importance of teamwork and community during discussions, relating them to real-life situations. Use the holiday context of the book to discuss your family’s own holiday traditions and the spirit of giving.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of sharing
Explanation: In 'An Ali Cat Christmas', Ali learns the joy of sharing her gifts with others, demonstrating that the holiday is not only about receiving but also giving.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing their toys, snacks, or time with friends and siblings, fostering a sense of community and generosity.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Ali displays empathy by understanding the feelings of those around her who might not be as fortunate during the Christmas season.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children recognize emotions in others and respond kindly, crucial for building strong interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: The value of family traditions
Explanation: The story highlights the Cat family’s Christmas traditions, underscoring how these practices bond family members and create lasting memories.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to participate in their own family traditions or perhaps start new ones, enhancing family connections and creating a sense of belonging.
Example Lesson: Resilience through challenges
Explanation: Ali faces various challenges but learns to overcome them with a positive spirit, teaching children that obstacles can be tackled with determination.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child's life by encouraging them to face school challenges or personal fears with a positive and persistent attitude.
Example Lesson: Joy in simple pleasures
Explanation: Ali finds joy not in grandiose gifts but in simple pleasures and the company of her family, shifting focus from materialism to happiness in small things.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to find happiness in everyday moments and appreciate what they have, rather than longing for more material possessions.