Heartland Super Special: A Holiday Memory
Heartland Special Edition, Heartland Series
on Goodreads (737)
What’s inside...
In this Heartland Super Special, Amy reminisces about the last holiday spent with her mother before the series began. During that Christmas, Amy was training Sundance, a challenging pony they had rescued. Sundance was talented but difficult to handle, and Amy struggled with her mother's demanding training schedule and her own lack of holiday spirit. However, when Sundance falls ill, Amy begins to see his vulnerability and understands the precious gift of connection she shares with her mother. This story is filled with nostalgia and inspiration, providing insights into Amy's life before the series.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
208 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Amy Fleming
Ty Borden
Lou Fleming
Jack Bartlett
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the holiday in the story and why?
How did Amy's feelings change throughout the book, and what made her feel that way?
If you could spend a holiday at Heartland, what activities would you like to do?
How do the characters show that they care for each other during their holiday celebration?
What can we learn about different holiday traditions from the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they already know about holidays at farms or ranches, and relate it to the setting of the book.
During reading, pause at emotionally charged moments to explore your child's feelings about similar situations in their own life.
After reading, create a fun activity like drawing a scene from the book or reenacting a favorite part to make the story come to life for your child.
Discuss the different characters' roles and emotions in the book and relate them to real-life situations that your child may encounter, enhancing empathy and understanding.
Encourage your child to talk about their own holiday memories and how they compare to the ones in 'Heartland Super Special: A Holiday Memory.'
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of compassion and empathy
Explanation: In 'Heartland Super Special: A Holiday Memory,' the characters demonstrate compassion by caring for animals and understanding each other’s feelings.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these lessons by showing kindness to pets and being considerate towards the feelings of friends and family members.
Example Lesson: Value of family and community
Explanation: The story highlights the strength and support systems within family and community gatherings during the holiday season.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate and contribute to family activities and community events, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support.
Example Lesson: The benefits of hard work and responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the book take on responsibilities around the farm, demonstrating the rewards of hard work and dedication.
Real-World Application: Children learn to take responsibilities seriously, whether it’s related to school projects or household chores, understanding that their efforts have positive outcomes.
Example Lesson: Resilience in overcoming challenges
Explanation: The book shows characters facing and overcoming various emotional and physical challenges.
Real-World Application: This can teach children that perseverance and resilience are important qualities when facing difficulties in their own lives.
Example Lesson: The joy of giving and sharing
Explanation: Throughout the holidays, characters exchange gifts and share moments, illustrating the happiness derived from giving and sharing with others.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to share toys, time, and experiences with others, learning that sharing often multiplies joy.