OH NO, SANTA!: A Pop-Up Book by Kees Moerbeek
on Goodreads (21)
What’s inside...
In this pop-up book, Santa is in search of a Christmas tree to decorate his home. As Christmas approaches, he finds that all the trees have been sold out. Santa embarks on a journey across the North Pole, meeting various characters along the way. One character, a polar bear, has a clever sound mechanism that plays the sound of chopping down a tree for Santa. Despite his efforts, Santa's choices for Christmas trees are complicated by the creatures residing in them. In Santa's desperate search for a Christmas tree, he comes across many animals all with the same response, 'Oh no, Santa! You can't take this tree!' Until finally he finds a scrawny, second-hand tree. But there's a surprise back at Santa's cottage waiting for him.
Discussion points
What do you think Santa might be feeling when things go wrong?
How do the pop-up features make the story feel more exciting?
Can you think of a time when you solved a problem like Santa?
What is your favorite part of the pop-up book and why?
How would you help Santa if you were one of his helpers?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story by relating to Santa’s challenges.
Point out and discuss the mechanical aspects of the pop-up illustrations, asking your child how they think it works.
Prompt your child to think creatively by asking how they would have handled Santa's situations differently.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and problem-solving as shown in the book.
Celebrate the interactive reading experience by taking turns to read aloud and manipulate the pop-up features with your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: In 'OH NO, SANTA!', Santa encounters various challenges that require quick thinking and inventive solutions, showcasing the importance of problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving skills in real life by overcoming obstacles they face in school projects or in resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Santa works together with his elves and reindeer to deliver gifts, emphasizing the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of working with others to achieve common goals, beneficial in group assignments or team sports.
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: The story illustrates the happiness Santa derives from giving gifts, teaching children the value of generosity.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to share and give to others, fostering a sense of community and empathy in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in facing adversity
Explanation: Despite the challenges, Santa remains determined to deliver joy, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to remain optimistic and persistent despite difficulties, useful in tackling academic challenges or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The pop-up book format itself and the creative solutions Santa uses encourage an appreciation for creativity.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to express themselves creatively in arts, crafts, or storytelling, enhancing their imaginative capabilities.