Happy Gift Day to You
#4 of 7 in The Very Worst Ever Series
What’s inside...
A very unlucky kid searches for the perfect birthday present for his rich friend in the fourth book in The Very Worst Ever chapter book series!Regina du Lar: mega-rich, video game creator, and one of [REDACTED]’s super cool new best friends. When she invites him to her birthday party, he’s thrilled to see the du Lar mansion for the first time. But [REDACTED] needs a birthday present for Regina, and it’s got to be the biggest, coolest, and shiniest present ever. What do you get someone who already has everything?! With easy-to-read language and illustrations on almost every page, The Very Worst Ever chapter books are perfect for emerging readers.
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the gift-giving in the story, and why?
How do you think the main character felt when they received their gift?
Can you think of a time when you gave someone a gift? How did it make you feel?
Why do you think giving gifts is important in the story?
If you could give a gift to anyone in the story, who would it be and what would you give them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they think the story might be about just by looking at the cover.
While reading, pause at exciting moments and ask your child to predict what might happen next.
After reading, connect the story to your child's experiences by discussing any gifts they have given or received.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene from the book, which can deepen their connection to the story and its themes.
Discuss the emotions expressed in the book and relate them to real-life situations to help your child understand empathy and kindness.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The Joy of Giving
Explanation: The book illustrates the happiness derived from giving gifts to others, showcasing characters experiencing delight in making others happy.
Real-World Application: Children can practice generosity by sharing their toys or making thoughtful gestures towards family and friends.
Example Lesson: The Value of Thoughtfulness
Explanation: Each character in the story puts thought into selecting a special gift that the recipient would truly cherish, emphasizing the importance of considering others' preferences and feelings.
Real-World Application: Children learn to observe and listen to their peers' likes and dislikes, fostering empathy and more meaningful interactions.
Example Lesson: Celebrating Diversity
Explanation: The gifts chosen are reflective of each character's unique background and culture, promoting an appreciation for diversity and inclusivity.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to learn about and respect different cultures and traditions, which supports social harmony and global awareness.
Example Lesson: Creativity in Problem Solving
Explanation: Characters in the book come up with creative solutions when faced with the challenge of what to gift, demonstrating resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply creativity to overcome challenges in school projects or in resolving conflicts with peers.