The Extra Special Baby: The Story of the Christmas Promise
on Goodreads (16)
What’s inside...
This book tells the story of the Nativity, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ as the Christmas promise. It is a heartwarming retelling that captures the joy and wonder of the first Christmas with beautiful illustrations. A long time ago, a long way away, some very clever men discovered a very exciting promise! In Bethlehem, under the quiet night sky, an Extra Special Baby was born. Let Antonia Woodward’s beautiful retelling of the Nativity story take you back to the excitement of that very first Christmas night. Read about the baby that was so extra special that life on earth would change forever, in this exquisitely illustrated Christmas picture book, full of warmth.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes the baby in the story extra special?
How do the different characters in the book show their love and care for the baby?
Why do you think the story is called 'The Story of the Christmas Promise'?
What are some ways we can share our joy about something special, like the characters did?
How did the story make you feel about helping and caring for others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, give a brief introduction about the story’s connection to Christmas and the idea of promises.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story by using open-ended questions.
Discuss the emotions of different characters at various points in the story and relate them to real-life situations.
Use the illustrations in the book to ask your child what they notice and how they think it contributes to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: The story depicts various characters showing kindness and care towards each other, highlighting the birth of Jesus as a symbol of hope and love.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to understand and share the feelings of others, practicing acts of kindness in their daily interactions with family and friends.
Example Lesson: The importance of community
Explanation: The narrative shows different figures coming together to celebrate the birth of Jesus, demonstrating the strength and support a community can offer.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in community activities, understanding the value of being part of and contributing to a group.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Characters in the story, including Mary and Joseph, exhibit bravery and faith despite challenges, emphasizing resilience.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to face their own challenges courageously, drawing strength from the examples of perseverance and faith they read about.
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: The wise men’s gifts to the baby Jesus teach the value of giving thoughtfully and generously.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to think of what others might appreciate and encourage them to give gifts that are meaningful.
Example Lesson: Hope and faith
Explanation: The central theme of the Christmas story is one of hope and faith, with the promise of Jesus' birth bringing joy and peace.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to remain hopeful and maintain faith during difficult times, understanding that positive outcomes are possible with belief and perseverance.