The Night I Met Father Christmas
What’s inside...
Enter a world of wonder with this heartfelt Christmas classic from bestselling children's author Ben Miller. Join Jackson as he learns about the mysteries of Father Christmas and embarks on a magical journey after meeting him one Christmas Eve. Discover the enchanting story of how Father Christmas came to be, through a fairy-tale adventure filled with beautiful illustrations, warmth, and humor. This book rekindles the true spirit of Christmas and proves that Father Christmas really does exist.
Age
7-8
Length
272 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Jackson
Father Christmas
Discussion points
What would you do if you met Father Christmas? How would you feel?
Why do you think Father Christmas wanted Jackson to learn about his past?
What is the most important lesson Jackson learned during his adventure?
How did Jackson's view of Christmas change from the beginning to the end of the book?
If you could give a gift to anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about meeting Father Christmas, just like Jackson in the story.
Discuss the importance of learning from the past and how it shapes who we are today, drawing parallels to Father Christmas' revelations to Jackson.
Highlight the moral lessons in the book, prompting your child to think about what they would have done in Jackson’s shoes.
Engage in a discussion about the spirit of giving during Christmas and how the book portrays this theme.
Ask your child to think of a creative gift that they can give someone, inspired by the joy of giving shown in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of giving and sharing
Explanation: In the story, the protagonist learns the value of generosity when Father Christmas shares his own tale of transformation from a selfish man into the generous figure we know today.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in acts of kindness, such as sharing toys with friends or helping family members, which reinforces the joy found in giving rather than receiving.
Example Lesson: The power of redemption and change
Explanation: Father Christmas' backstory in the book shows that anyone, no matter their past actions, has the capacity to change and make positive contributions.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children that it's never too late to change for the better and encourages them to always strive to improve themselves and rectify past mistakes.
Example Lesson: The significance of believing in something greater
Explanation: As the boy in the story learns about Father Christmas, it reignites his belief in the magic of Christmas and the broader idea of believing in something beyond oneself.
Real-World Application: This narrative can inspire children to have faith and believe in greater causes or ideas, boosting their confidence and giving them the motivation to achieve personal goals.
Example Lesson: Understanding the impact of one's actions on others
Explanation: The transformation of Father Christmas highlights how one's behavior directly affects others, which ultimately led to his decision to become a bringer of joy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to consider how their actions influence those around them and the value in making choices that contribute positively to their community.