Christmas Best
on Goodreads (14)
What’s inside...
North Pole Mayhem: Chaos and confusion sweep through Santa's Workshop at Christmas when five elves walk off their jobs in search of 'greatness.' Their misadventure with new holiday careers leads them to learn that they are each special in their own way. As Santa explains, they are already great when they work with love and care, tapping into what is their CHRISTMAS BEST. 'Christmas Best' is a colorful, beautifully illustrated picture book for children 4-7 years old. Funny, rhymed text is fun for adults to read aloud and is easy enough for boys and girls to follow along. The story told with humor works as a lesson in values as well as all-around entertainment. Great for home, library or school -- bedtime or anytime! Available in Paperback and Hardcover -- Perfect for Gift-giving!
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the story and why?
How do you think the main character felt when the Christmas surprise was revealed?
What does Christmas mean to you? How is it similar or different from the book's depiction?
If you could give any character in the book a gift, who would you choose and what would you give them?
How can we make our family Christmas celebration special like in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading: Try to embody the characters with different voices and emotions as you read aloud to make the story come alive.
Relate to personal experiences: Share your own family Christmas traditions and ask your child how they compare to those in the book.
Encourage empathy: Discuss the emotions of characters in different situations, helping your child understand and verbalize their own feelings.
Post-reading activity: Create a simple craft or drawing inspired by the book to help cement themes and spark creativity.
Make connections: Link themes from the book to everyday behaviors, like giving, sharing, and family bonding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: In 'Christmas Best', the protagonist learns the happiness that comes from giving gifts and sharing with others during the holiday season.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in gift exchanges at school or by helping to select and wrap gifts for family members, fostering a spirit of generosity.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and friends
Explanation: The story emphasizes the value of spending time with loved ones and the warmth of family gatherings during Christmas.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to help plan family activities during holidays or make handmade cards, strengthening family bonds and cherishing relationships.
Example Lesson: Creativity and self-expression
Explanation: The characters in the book express themselves through decorating and preparing for Christmas, showing how creativity can enhance traditional celebrations.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to engage in creative activities like crafting decorations or baking festive treats, boosting their expressive skills and confidence.
Example Lesson: The spirit of perseverance
Explanation: Characters in the book face challenges while preparing for Christmas but persist until they succeed, illustrating the importance of determination.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to persist in solving everyday challenges, whether in completing a difficult puzzle or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The book portrays characters who are considerate of each other's feelings and needs during the festive season, highlighting empathetic behavior.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be mindful of their peers' and family members' emotions and circumstances, enhancing their social interactions and emotional intelligence.