The Empty Stocking
What’s inside...
It's Christmas Eve, and twins Sam and Charlie are anxiously wondering if they've been good enough this year. While Sam has been well-behaved, Charlie has a reputation for being quite naughty. As the night progresses, they both worry about Santa's impending visit and the consequences of their actions throughout the year, knowing that sometimes Santa has to take a tougher stance on those who haven't been good. The Empty Stocking is a brilliantly funny Christmas story by Richard Curtis and Rebecca Cobb. In this heartwarming tale, it's Christmas Eve and the big question is - have YOU been good this year? For twins Sam and Charlie, this is a big worry. Charlie has been especially naughty and is expected not to receive any presents. However, when Santa makes a mistake, it's up to Charlie to put things right. Richard Curtis, an award-winning and international film-director and scriptwriter known for Four Weddings and a Funeral, Love Actually, and more, teams up with award-winning illustrator Rebecca Cobb to deliver this delightful Christmas story.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Santa decides who's been naughty or nice?
What would you do if you were in the twins' position?
How does the story make you feel about sharing and kindness?
Why do you think it's important to give rather than receive?
How can we help others who might not have a happy holiday?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a warm and curious tone to encourage your child to think deeply about the characters' emotions and actions.
Relate the twins’ experiences to your child's life by discussing times when they faced similar dilemmas about right and wrong.
Praise your child for thoughtful answers or unique perspectives to boost their confidence in expressing their thoughts.
Encourage your child to think about the real-life implications of the book's themes, such as kindness and generosity.
Wrap up the discussion with a personal reflection question, asking your child how they might act in a similar situation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of forgiveness
Explanation: In 'The Empty Stocking', one twin sister's past mischievous behaviors are forgiven when Santa Claus surprisingly fills her stocking, reflecting the spirit of generosity and forgiveness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to forgive their siblings or friends for small mistakes, understanding that everyone deserves a second chance.
Example Lesson: The power of good behavior
Explanation: The story contrasts the behaviors of the twin sisters, emphasizing how good deeds are eventually rewarded, as shown by the filled stockings.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to adopt positive behaviors in their daily lives, such as sharing with others or helping around the house, in anticipation of positive outcomes.
Example Lesson: The spirit of Christmas
Explanation: The book conveys the message that Christmas is not just about receiving gifts but also about showing love and care for others, exemplified when both stockings are filled, symbolizing equality and love.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to participate in activities that spread joy during the holiday season, such as making cards for family members or participating in charitable giving.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: Throughout the book, the concept that actions have consequences is illustrated, particularly through the sister worried about receiving a gift due to her past behavior.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that their actions, good or bad, have results, teaching them to think about the consequences before acting.