The Night Before Christmas - Illustrated by Arthur Rackham
not part of a series
What’s inside...
Step into the magic of Christmas with this timeless yuletide poem, 'The Night Before Christmas', accompanied by enchanting illustrations by Arthur Rackham. Published in 1823 by Clement Clarke Moore, this lyrical story captures the excitement of Christmas morning with St. Nicholas and his eight reindeer visiting with gifts. While the poem first appeared anonymously in a newspaper in 1823, Moore claimed authorship years later, despite contention from the family of Henry Livingston Jr. Regardless of its true origins, this cherished poem, brought to life by Rackham's masterful artwork, remains a beloved Christmas classic.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-17
Length
42 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Narrator'S Father
Saint Nicholas
Santa Claus
Discussion points
Why do you think Santa Claus is so joyful about giving gifts?
How do the illustrations help tell the story of Christmas Eve?
What do you think the children in the story are feeling the night before Christmas?
If you could ask Santa for one wish, what would it be and why?
How does the spirit of Christmas in the book relate to our own holiday traditions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, changing your tone with each character.
Point out the details in Arthur Rackham’s illustrations and ask your child how they think those images enhance the story.
Encourage your child to imagine their own versions of the night before Christmas, fostering creative thinking.
Discuss the themes of generosity and kindness, and relate them to everyday life to instill these values.
Create a cozy reading environment that mimics the warm, festive atmosphere of Christmas Eve described in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of giving
Explanation: The story showcases Santa Claus as he prepares and delivers gifts to children, emphasizing the joy of giving rather than receiving.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take joy in giving to others, whether by sharing toys with friends or participating in charity events with their family.
Example Lesson: The value of kindness
Explanation: Santa's gentle and jolly demeanor throughout his journey highlights how kindness can spread happiness.
Real-World Application: Children can emulate this by being kind to their peers, family members, and even pets, fostering a more empathetic environment around them.
Example Lesson: The magic of tradition
Explanation: The story revolves around the traditional Christmas Eve scenario, showcasing the excitement and anticipation it brings to children.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate and partake in family traditions, which helps in strengthening family bonds and creating lasting memories.
Example Lesson: The joy of anticipation
Explanation: The poem builds up the excitement of waiting for Santa Claus, capturing the essence of anticipation.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of patience and the excitement that comes from looking forward to special events and milestones.
Example Lesson: The spirit of Christmas
Explanation: Through the vivid descriptions and the warmth of the narrative, the story encapsulates the spirit of Christmas as a time of joy and giving.
Real-World Application: Children absorb the essence of the festive spirit, encouraging them to partake cheerfully in holiday activities and understand the broader significance of celebrating together.