Is It Really Nearly Christmas?
on Goodreads (19)
What’s inside...
'This isn't any old night, this is a magic night!' A stunning picture book from a gifted storyteller and award-winning illustrator that perfectly captures the joy and anticipation of Christmas Eve. There's only one more sleep till Christmas and Lucas and Willow, the moon and the stars are all waiting ... While they wait, the children remember everything they love about Christmas, but they don't notice that the magic has already begun...
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-5
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the countdown to Christmas in the story, and why?
How do you think the characters felt as Christmas got closer? Can you relate to their feelings?
What are some ways the characters prepared for Christmas? How do we prepare for Christmas in our home?
If you could give any character in the book a Christmas gift, who would you choose and what would you give them?
Why do you think the author chose to show the days leading up to Christmas in the story? What does it teach us about patience and excitement?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by reading the book together, pausing at exciting moments to discuss the illustrations and expressions of the characters. Use the questions to guide a deeper conversation about the anticipation and joy of Christmas, drawing parallels to your family's own holiday experiences. Encourage your child to express their feelings about Christmas and their own holiday traditions, fostering a heartfelt connection to both the story and the season.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Patience
Explanation: The story revolves around a little mouse eagerly counting down the days to Christmas, which teaches children the value of patience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to handle anticipation and wait for upcoming events or rewards without frustration.
Example Lesson: Understanding Time
Explanation: Through the mouse’s daily countdown, children understand the concept of time and dates.
Real-World Application: This helps children grasp how to track days on a calendar, aiding them in planning and organizing around time.
Example Lesson: Family Bonding
Explanation: The story highlights the mouse’s interactions with family as they prepare for Christmas, illustrating the importance of family during festive seasons.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and participate in family traditions and festivities, strengthening familial relationships.
Example Lesson: Excitement in Simplicity
Explanation: The mouse finds joy in simple preparations and small details leading up to Christmas.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to find happiness in simple daily activities and cherish the small moments.
Example Lesson: Seasonal Awareness
Explanation: The setting and activities align with the winter season, providing a contextual understanding of seasonal changes.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recognize and appreciate the characteristics and events associated with different seasons.