Joseph's Boy (The Young Testament)
on Goodreads (449)
What’s inside...
Beloved author-illustrator Patricia Polacco's holiday story is a wonderful ode to the magic of family, Christmas, and giving the right kind of gifts—gifts filled with love. Richie and Trisha want to buy Christmas gifts for their family, but they don't have enough money. Enter Kay Lamity, a new housekeeper who comes into their lives like a whirlwind, brimming with positive energy and a can-do attitude. Kay not only straightens them out when it comes to whether or not Santa Claus is real, she teaches them something about gifts: the just-good-enough kind that come from the pocketbook and the unforgettable kind that come from the heart. Because of Kay, Trisha and Richie—and the family—have a Christmas morning they will never forget. Celebrating the joy of homemade gifts, Patricia Polacco introduces readers to a new character who is truly a force of nature in this magical Christmas story that the author swears is true, right down to the sleigh tracks on the farmhouse roof!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Joseph felt when he learned he would be a father to Jesus?
What qualities do you admire in Mary and Joseph?
How do the villagers react to Mary and Joseph’s news, and why do you think they reacted that way?
What challenges do Mary and Joseph face, and how do they overcome them?
What can we learn from the trust and faith Mary and Joseph had during their journey?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a comfortable reading environment where your child feels open to express their thoughts and emotions. Encourage them to place themselves in the story, imagining how they might feel in similar situations. Acknowledge all responses, promoting a deeper understanding of the themes of faith, trust, and resilience. Discuss the historical and cultural context of the story to enhance comprehension and empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Compassion and empathy
Explanation: The story portrays young Joseph's journey of understanding and caring for others around him, including their feelings and experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be considerate and understanding towards their peers, fostering a more empathetic community.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Joseph takes on significant duties at a young age, learning to deal with various challenges responsibly.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to take responsibility for their actions and understand the impact they have on others around them.
Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: Throughout the tale, Joseph faces numerous obstacles but continues to confront them bravely.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of resilience and courage, helping them to overcome challenges they encounter in their lives.
Example Lesson: The power of faith
Explanation: The story emphasizes Joseph's steadfast faith and how it guides him during difficult times.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate the significance of personal beliefs and how they can provide support during tough situations.
Example Lesson: The importance of family
Explanation: Joseph's story highlights his connections with family members and the mutual support they provide each other.
Real-World Application: It teaches children to value and nurture their relationships with family members, recognizing the vital role family plays in their lives.