Barbie: The Nutcracker
Barbie Golden Books, Barbie in the Nutcracker, Barbie Little Golden Books Series
on Goodreads (59)
What’s inside...
Barbie stars as Clara in this simple, gorgeously illustrated retelling of the classic ballet. Girls will feel as though they have front-row seats to this Christmas favorite!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
16 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Clara
Captain Candy
Major Mint
Nutcracker/Prince Eric
Mouse King
Discussion points
What qualities do you admire in Clara, and why?
How do you think the Nutcracker felt when Clara helped him?
What would you do if you were in a magical land like Clara?
How did Clara show bravery in the story?
What is the most important lesson you learned from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the fantasy world and ask them what they would explore first.
Discuss the theme of bravery by asking how they have shown or could show bravery in their own lives.
Relate the story's themes to real-life situations to foster deeper understanding and personal connection.
Ask your child how they think a character’s feelings changed throughout the book and why, to develop empathy and emotional intelligence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Determination
Explanation: The character Barbie, as Clara, demonstrates courage when she embarks on an adventure with the Nutcracker, facing multiple challenges bravely.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to face their fears and try new activities, understanding that courage is about overcoming obstacles despite feeling afraid.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Kindness and Helping Others
Explanation: Throughout the story, Clara shows kindness to the Nutcracker and other characters, which ultimately leads to positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of helping others and being kind, encouraging them to be considerate and supportive towards their peers and family members.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Clara and the Nutcracker work together to navigate their challenges, showcasing the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn that working together as a team can help solve problems more efficiently, a lesson they can apply during group activities at school or in sports.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Despite the difficulties Clara faces, her resilience helps her to persevere and achieve her goals.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of persisting through difficulties, a crucial skill in educational pursuits and personal growth.
Example Lesson: The Power of Imagination
Explanation: Clara's adventure begins with her imagination as she believes in the magic of the Nutcracker and the realm she enters.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their imagination in play and creativity, which is essential for cognitive development and problem-solving.