The Littlest Magi SEA: A Christmas Tale
#1 in Littlest Series
on Goodreads (12)
What’s inside...
This story for children ages four to eight is about Jacob, a young orphan who is a servant in Herod's kitchen. One afternoon he overhears some strange men telling Herod about a new king who has been born nearby. He follows the strangers to the village where the baby is. He then realizes that the new baby king is in danger. Jacob, a young boy who is a servant in King Herod's household, overhears three strangers tell Herod about a new king. Jacob is so excited and wants to see the new king too, so he stows away in the strangers' caravan. What follows is an exciting adventure that puts young Jacob in a race against time to rescue Joseph, Mary, and Baby Jesus from the clutches of evil Herod. Children ages 4 to 8 will love this retelling of the Christmas story. Filled with beautiful illustrations by Bruce Eagle, The Littlest Magi shares the wonderful message of how even the tiniest child can serve God. Through imaginative and innovative products, Zonderkidz is feeding young souls.
Discussion points
What do you think the sea creatures might wish for during Christmas?
How do you feel about the way the littlest Magi helps his friends?
What would you do if you were in the place of the littlest Magi?
Why is it important to help others, especially during festive seasons like Christmas?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine the underwater world described in the book. Ask them to describe the colors, textures, and creatures they envision.
Highlight the importance of kindness and helping others, as shown by the littlest Magi. Discuss ways your child can demonstrate these values in their daily life.
Use the festive context of the story to discuss your family’s own holiday traditions and any parallels they see in the book.
Promote empathy by asking your child how they think each sea creature felt in various parts of the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and generosity
Explanation: In 'The Littlest Magi SEA: A Christmas Tale', the main character demonstrates kindness by giving gifts selflessly to others, reflecting the true spirit of Christmas.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to share their toys, help friends in need, and participate in community charity events, fostering a habit of giving and thoughtfulness.
Example Lesson: The value of persistence
Explanation: The protagonist faces challenges but perseveres to fulfill a personal quest, showing that determination can lead to achieving goals.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to keep trying in their educational pursuits, sports, or learning new skills, despite difficulties they might encounter.
Example Lesson: The significance of inclusivity
Explanation: This tale highlights embracing differences and including others, as the main character interacts with various figures during the journey, promoting unity and diversity.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this by welcoming new students in their school, playing with different groups, and respecting diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Understanding the joy of giving
Explanation: The story illustrates that giving to others brings happiness not just to the receiver, but also to the giver, enhancing the festive cheer.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to involve themselves in gift exchanges and understand that the act of giving can be as rewarding as receiving.
Example Lesson: Learning about cultural traditions
Explanation: As the story unfolds, different cultural representations of Christmas are depicted, which educates about the varied ways people celebrate the same festival.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate cultural diversity and participate in cultural learning activities at school or in their community.