I See Santa Everywhere
on Goodreads (92)
What’s inside...
A young boy's sanity is pushed to the limits when he's sure he's seeing Santa Claus around every corner. Luckily, he's found a sympathetic ear in his therapist....or has he? Cartoonist Glenn McCoy discovers the hidden menace (and humor) in the season's most beloved gift giver.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the main character feels when they see Santa everywhere? Can you describe a time you felt the same way?
What do you think the story teaches us about the spirit of Christmas?
Why do you think the main character keeps seeing Santa everywhere? What does Santa represent in the story?
If you could add another scene to the story, what would it be and why?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in a different season?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child what they know about Santa and what he represents during the Christmas season. This sets a thematic foundation for your discussion.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story by relating it to their own experiences of anticipation and excitement during the holidays.
After reading, engage your child in a creative activity, like drawing their favorite scene from the book or writing a letter to Santa, to deepen their connection with the story’s themes.
Use expressive reading techniques, such as different voices or exaggerated expressions, to make the story more engaging and to emphasize important moments in the narrative.
Discuss the emotions of the characters in the story after reading it. This helps your child develop empathy and a deeper understanding of the story’s message.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Awareness and Observation
Explanation: The protagonist sees Santa everywhere, which encourages sharp observation skills and attentiveness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these observational skills in class or at home to notice patterns, details, and instructions, which enhance learning and interaction.
Example Lesson: Imagination and Creativity
Explanation: Imagining Santa in various scenarios helps foster a child's creativity and ability to think outside the box.
Real-World Application: This creativity can be channelled into problem solving and artistic expression in their everyday activities and school projects.
Example Lesson: Joy in Routine
Explanation: The book shows Santa in everyday situations, teaching kids to find joy and magic in daily life.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate the small, everyday moments, fostering a positive outlook and happiness.
Example Lesson: Understanding and Empathy
Explanation: Seeing Santa in various roles allows children to understand different perspectives and roles people play in society.
Real-World Application: This understanding can help children develop empathy towards people from different walks of life and professions.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The quest to find Santa everywhere ignites curiosity about the world and its workings.
Real-World Application: Curiosity leads to exploring new ideas, asking questions, and a continuous learning mindset that is vital in education and personal growth.