An Otis Christmas
#4 of 6 in Otis the Tractor Series
on Goodreads (618)
What’s inside...
It's Christmas eve on the farm where Otis the tractor and his friends live. Otis receives a shiny new horn as a Christmas present and soon finds himself on a mission to save a horse in labor during a snowstorm. With roads impassable, Otis uses his horn to wake the sleeping Doc Baker and guides him back to the farm just in time for the birth of a new foal. This heartwarming story celebrates the themes of friendship, bravery, and the joy of the holiday season.
Character compass
Otis
Mare
The Farmer
Discussion points
How did Otis show his bravery and kindness in the story?
What does Christmas mean to you and how do you like to celebrate it?
Why do you think it's important to help others, just like Otis helped the mare?
How did you feel when Otis saved the day, and what would you have done if you were Otis?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the values demonstrated by Otis, such as bravery and kindness. Use the festive context of the book to discuss your family's own holiday traditions and values. Highlight the importance of helping others, drawing parallels to similar situations in your child’s life. Lastly, celebrate the problem-solving aspect of the story, urging the child to come up with their own solutions to challenges they might face.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: In 'An Otis Christmas,' Otis the tractor demonstrates empathy and compassion as he helps a mare during a difficult childbirth on Christmas Eve.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of caring for others in need, which can encourage them to help their friends or family members during difficult times.
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: Otis gives up his own Christmas presents to make the mare comfortable, showing that giving can be more rewarding than receiving.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to find happiness in giving gifts and doing kind acts for others, especially during holidays and celebrations.
Example Lesson: Persistence and Problem-Solving
Explanation: Otis overcomes several challenges to help the mare, showcasing determination and smart thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persistently approach their own challenges, whether in school or in personal situations, and think creatively to solve problems.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The farm animals come together to assist Otis, illustrating how teamwork can lead to successful outcomes.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to collaborate with others and value everyone's contributions in group settings like classrooms or sports teams.