Cool Christmas Stories (Super Shorts) (Super Shorts)
Super Shorts Series
on Goodreads (16)
What’s inside...
A magical collection of ten Christmas stories enchants young readers with a mix of original stories and traditional tale retellings. Popular authors like Adèle Geras, Dyan Sheldon, and Martin Waddell contribute contemporary holiday tales, while classics like 'The Nutcracker,' 'The Elves and the Shoemaker,' and 'The Legend of St. Nicholas' are also included. The easy-to-read format, engaging narratives, and appealing illustrations offer a balance of challenge and support for new readers transitioning to short stories.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-10
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite story in the book and why did it stand out to you?
How do the characters in these stories show kindness and generosity during Christmas?
Can you imagine a new ending for one of the stories? What would happen next?
Which character would you like to meet and what would you ask them?
How do you think the spirit of Christmas is shown in these stories?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the stories. Use the questions as a springboard for a deeper understanding of themes like generosity and compassion. Share your own favorite Christmas stories and memories, connecting your experiences with the stories in the book. Listen actively to your child’s responses, and foster an environment where they feel comfortable to dream up their own stories and endings. Highlight the moral lessons in each story to reinforce positive values.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of generosity
Explanation: Through stories of characters sharing with others during the Christmas season, children learn the value of being generous.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing toys with friends or siblings, or by helping their parents with household chores without being asked.
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: Characters in the stories experience happiness from giving gifts and spreading joy, showing children that giving can be as rewarding as receiving.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to participate in gift-giving occasions, such as making cards for family members or helping to choose gifts for others.
Example Lesson: Understanding diverse traditions
Explanation: The book includes stories from different cultural backgrounds demonstrating various ways to celebrate Christmas, fostering an appreciation for diversity.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to learn about and respect different festive traditions from around the world, promoting inclusiveness.
Example Lesson: The value of family and togetherness
Explanation: Many stories center around family gatherings and teamwork, which highlights the importance of family bonds and cooperation.
Real-World Application: Kids can be motivated to spend quality time with family and engage in activities that require teamwork, such as board games or cooking.