The Truth About Mrs. Claus
What’s inside...
An empowering holiday picture book by Meena Harris, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Ambitious Girl. Amalia the Elf loves everything about making teddy bears, from watching her Grandma and Mama sew to feeling the soft, velvety fur and imagining the bears in their new homes. However, she struggles with the bear-making part itself and is worried about disappointing her family. Seeking advice, Amalia goes to Santa, but it’s Mrs. Claus who provides the solution to Amalia's problem and reveals a secret issue of her own. 'The Truth About Mrs. Claus' is an empowering story about being true to yourself, honoring family traditions, and believing in Christmas magic.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Mrs. Claus feels about being known only for helping Santa Claus?
What qualities do you think make Mrs. Claus a special character in the story?
If you could spend a day with Mrs. Claus, what activities would you do together?
How do you think the story would change if Mrs. Claus was the main character instead of Santa?
What did you learn about teamwork and helping others from Mrs. Claus's actions in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions to allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book’s themes.
Encourage your child to relate to Mrs. Claus by asking how they would feel in similar situations presented in the book.
Discuss the different qualities and roles of characters, emphasizing how everyone can contribute in unique ways.
After reading, encourage your child to draw or write a short story about an adventure with Mrs. Claus, enhancing their connection to the character.
Highlight the importance of supporting characters like Mrs. Claus, who help achieve goals and make the main events possible.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The story illustrates how Mrs. Claus works together with elves and reindeer to solve problems, showing that teamwork is essential to achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or with friends, learning to collaborate and value each team member's contributions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: Mrs. Claus often thinks outside the box to deliver gifts and spread holiday joy, underscoring the importance of creativity in overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their imagination in problem-solving situations, whether it be in their play, studies, or daily challenges.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Throughout the book, Mrs. Claus shows a deep understanding and kindness towards others’ feelings and situations, teaching children the value of empathy.
Real-World Application: This can help children learn to be considerate of others' emotions and circumstances, fostering better interactions and friendships throughout their lives.
Example Lesson: Leadership
Explanation: Mrs. Claus takes the lead in organizing the holiday preparations when Santa is unavailable, demonstrating leadership qualities.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to take on small leadership roles, possibly in group activities or school projects, to develop confidence and decision-making skills.
Example Lesson: Joy in Giving
Explanation: The character of Mrs. Claus delights in giving and sharing, highlighting the joy and satisfaction that comes from generosity.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to find happiness in giving to others, whether by sharing toys or helping around the house, nurturing a lifelong generosity spirit.