Thomas and the Missing Christmas Tree
Railway Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (24)
What’s inside...
The send-a-story format features a mini-mailer, consisting of a color Thomas mini book enclosed within its own envelope. In the story, Thomas is responsible for getting the Christmas tree for the annual Tidmouth Station Christmas Party. However, a blizzard traps Thomas and the Christmas tree, leading to a rescue party by the other engines to free Thomas in time for the celebrations.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Thomas The Tank Engine
Sir Topham Hatt (The Fat Controller)
Discussion points
What do you think Thomas felt when he found the missing Christmas tree?
How did the other trains help Thomas in the story?
Why do you think it's important to help others, like Thomas did?
What would you have done if you were in Thomas’s place?
How did finding the Christmas tree change the celebration for everyone?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Thomas’s wheels, imagining how they would feel in similar situations. Highlight the importance of teamwork and helping others, as shown by Thomas and his friends. Discuss values like responsibility and perseverance that are depicted in the story. Utilize the festive context of the book to discuss family traditions and the spirit of giving around holidays. Ask your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stands out to them, fostering both recall skills and personal connection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and helping others
Explanation: In the story, Thomas is stuck in a snowdrift while trying to deliver a Christmas tree. His friends work together to rescue him, demonstrating the importance of helping others in need.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by collaborating with peers in school projects or helping family members with household chores.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Thomas is tasked with the important job of delivering the Christmas tree. The story illustrates the importance of taking responsibility seriously and the consequences when responsibilities are not met.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of fulfilling their duties, whether it's completing homework on time or performing their roles in family activities.
Example Lesson: Resilience and problem-solving
Explanation: When Thomas faces challenges, such as being stuck in the snow, he remains calm and strategizes solutions. This highlights the value of resilience and critical thinking in overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can practice staying calm under pressure and thinking of creative solutions when faced with difficulties in their lives.