Goats for Christmas: Calpurnia Tate, Girl Vet
#6 of 6 in Calpurnia Tate, Girl Vet Series
What’s inside...
Featuring the charming characters from the Newbery Honor Book The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate, this exciting chapter book series introduces young readers to Callie Vee and the rough-and-tumble world of turn-of-the-century Texas. Callie and Travis need sheep for the town Christmas pageant, where Travis is playing the shepherd in the Nativity scene. However, due to a shortage of sheep, they decide to borrow goats instead, leading to unexpected chaos as the goats wreak havoc by eating everything in sight. This Christmas pageant in Fentress is one that the town won't forget.
Discussion points
Why do you think Calpurnia is interested in becoming a vet? How does she show her passion for animals?
What role do the goats play in the story, and what do they teach Calpurnia and us about caring and responsibility?
How does Calpurnia’s family react to her interest in science and animals? How would you feel in her place?
What does this story tell us about the importance of curiosity and learning new things? Can you think of a time you learned something exciting?
How does the setting of the story in 1909 affect Calpurnia’s experiences and aspirations? How might her story be different if it were set today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their own experiences or aspirations to Calpurnia’s, fostering a personal connection with the story.
Discuss the challenges Calpurnia faces and ask your child how they would handle similar situations, promoting problem-solving skills.
Highlight the historical context of the book to enhance your child’s understanding of how times have changed, or remained the same, regarding gender roles and education.
Use the story’s events to discuss the value of perseverance and education, inspiring your child to embrace learning with enthusiasm.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Compassion and Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Goats for Christmas,' Calpurnia Tate displays compassion and responsibility as she cares for animals, portraying her vet ambitions and kindness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these values by taking care of their pets or helping others in their community, learning the importance of nurturing and being responsible for others.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Calpurnia’s inquisitive nature drives her to explore the world of veterinary science, highlighting her thirst for knowledge.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek information about their own interests, showing them that learning can be exciting and rewarding.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, Calpurnia faces challenges but continues to strive towards her dream of becoming a vet, demonstrating perseverance.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of persisting through obstacles in their learning or personal pursuits, reinforcing the message that hard work can lead to success.
Example Lesson: Family Bonding
Explanation: The Tate family’s dynamics and interactions in the story exemplify strong family support and bonding.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of family relationships and spending quality time together, which can be mirrored in their own family life.
Example Lesson: Gender Roles and Equality
Explanation: Calpurnia navigates a 1900s Texas setting where her aspirations challenge traditional gender roles, teaching about equality.
Real-World Application: Promotes the idea that children, regardless of gender, should be encouraged to pursue their passions and break stereotypes.