Jan Brett's The Nutcracker
What’s inside...
Jan Brett's striking illustrations and the Christmas classic The Nutcracker are a match made in picture book heaven. When Marie and her brother Fritz receive a special Christmas nutcracker from their uncle, Marie immediately feels something magical. 'He looks like a real boy,' she mused. 'A real boy with a secret, who came from far away.' This feeling is only the beginning of the epic adventure she goes on with the Nutcracker—into the cabinet, through the battle with the mice, and finally to the magical land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Jan Brett makes this classic her own by setting it in snowy Russia and adding whimsical touches to the favorite elements of the traditional ballet. Enjoying this book will be an instant Christmas tradition for families who love the ballet and those new to the story. As perfect a gift as Jan Brett's classics The Mitten and The Night Before Christmas.
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Marie
The Nutcracker Prince
Uncle Drosselmeyer
Mouse King
Discussion points
What feelings did you experience while reading about the Nutcracker's adventure?
How do you think the characters felt during the big battle with the Mouse King?
If you could be any character in this book, who would you be and why?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in today's world?
What lessons can we learn from the Nutcracker's bravery and Marie's kindness?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine and describe other adventures the characters might have.
Discuss the importance of bravery and kindness as depicted in the story, relating them to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Use a world map to explore Russia, where the original Nutcracker story is set, to enhance cultural understanding.
Create a fun activity by asking your child to draw their favorite scene and explain why they chose it.
Read together and take turns to express what each character might be thinking in key moments, fostering empathy and perspective-taking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and empathy
Explanation: In 'The Nutcracker,' the characters demonstrate acts of kindness, such as Clara caring for the Nutcracker, which turns him back into a prince.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to help and show empathy towards their friends and family in their daily interactions, fostering a supportive and caring environment.
Example Lesson: The power of imagination
Explanation: Clara's adventure with the Nutcracker in the magical land showcases the boundless possibilities of imagination.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to engage in creative play and storytelling, boosting cognitive development and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Clara bravely fights the Mouse King, despite her fears, showing courage and determination.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to confront their own fears and challenges, whether at school or in social situations, building their confidence and resilience.
Example Lesson: Value of resilience and perseverance
Explanation: Through the battles and challenges faced in the story, the characters persist and succeed, highlighting the rewards of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of persistence in overcoming obstacles, be it in learning new skills or dealing with personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: The joy of sharing experiences with loved ones
Explanation: Clara’s shared experiences with the Nutcracker and her family enhance the joys and memories of her adventures.
Real-World Application: Promotes spending quality time with family and friends, emphasizing that shared experiences can deepen relationships and create cherished memories.