The Little Fir Tree
2019 by
on Goodreads (165)
What’s inside...
Deep in the forest, there lived a beautiful little fir tree who longed to see the world. When the tree is taken to town at Christmas, it feels like all his dreams have come true. But what will happen the day after? Find out in this beautifully illustrated modern retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s festive tale.
When he was surrounded by the splendor of nature, the little fir tree could only think about what he wasn’t and what he didn’t have and couldn’t see. After the initial excitement of venturing out, though, he finds that the world isn’t quite what he expected .
As the story of the little fir tree unfolds—brought to enchanting life with the colorful, folk art–inspired artwork of acclaimed author/illustrator Christopher Corr—so does a touching lesson on appreciating what we already have and a hopeful message of rebirth .
Why read this book
- Vibrant illustrations captivate and stimulate visual learning.
- Teaches resilience and hope through engaging storytelling.
- Encourages empathy and environmental awareness.
- Perfect for family bonding over shared reading.
The Big Picture
- Teaches contentment and gratitude.
- Encourages resilience and self-worth.
- Perfect for discussing life's unique journeys.
Diversity & Representation
- Showcases nature's diversity through vivid, engaging illustrations.
- Highlights resilience, echoing diverse personal growth stories.
- Encourages inclusivity, celebrating differences and unity.
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
proficient
Character Compass
Discussion points
Why do you think the Little Fir Tree wanted to be part of the Christmas celebrations?
How did the Little Fir Tree feel when it was alone in the forest? Can you relate to its feelings?
What changes did the Little Fir Tree go through during the story, and how did those changes affect it?
What does this story teach us about patience and appreciating where we are?
How did the actions of the people around the Little Fir Tree impact it, and what does that tell us about how we should treat others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story, relating it to their own experiences of feeling left out or special.
Discuss the importance of patience and growth, emphasizing how the Little Fir Tree changed over time.
Ask your child to imagine what it’s like to be the Little Fir Tree, fostering empathy and understanding.
Highlight the themes of transformation and belonging, prompting your child to think about their own place in family and community.
What parents love
Heartfelt story, beautifully paced for young children.
Illustrations are captivating, enrich storyline effectively.
Perfect for bedtime reading; soothing, meaningful themes.
Encourages discussions about growth and resilience.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The Little Fir Tree faces challenges being small and not growing as fast as others, but it overcomes these by remaining steadfast and hopeful.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of perseverance in the face of obstacles and continue striving towards their goals regardless of setbacks.
Example Lesson: Joy in Life's Journey
Explanation: Throughout the seasons, the Little Fir Tree experiences and appreciates the changes, reflecting the beauty in life's different stages.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and find happiness in every phase of life, understanding that each period has its own unique beauty and lessons.
Example Lesson: Importance of Self-worth
Explanation: Despite being smaller than the other trees, the Little Fir Tree learns it's just as valuable, eventually becoming a cherished Christmas tree.
Real-World Application: This story teaches children to recognize their intrinsic value, promoting self-esteem and confidence regardless of external comparisons.
Example Lesson: Patience
Explanation: The Little Fir Tree waits patiently each year to grow taller and fuller, showing the virtue of patience.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the significance of patience and the rewards that can come from waiting and growing at their own pace.
Example Lesson: Connection with Nature
Explanation: The story places emphasis on the natural world, celebrating the fir tree in its natural habitat and as part of the Christmas tradition.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to connect with and appreciate the environment, fostering a relationship with nature and understanding sustainability in a simple context.