Letters from Father Christmas
What’s inside...
The new hardback edition of J.R.R. Tolkien's 'Father Christmas Letters' brings to life the enchanting letters sent annually from Father Christmas to Tolkien's children. This edition includes previously unpublished extracts and pictures, alongside a twin cassette featuring a festive reading by Derek Jacobi, with music and supporting roles by John Moffatt and Christian Rodzka. The letters narrate humorous and magical tales from the North Pole, involving mishaps with reindeer, the Polar Bear's antics, and troubles with goblins. This timeless collection, filled with humor and the spirit of Christmas, is sure to captivate readers of all ages. Every December an envelope bearing a stamp from the North Pole would arrive for J.R.R. Tolkien's children. Inside would be a letter in strange spidery handwriting and a beautiful colour drawing. They were from Father Christmas, telling wonderful tales of life at the North Pole. From the first note to Tolkien's eldest son in 1920 to the final poignant letter to his daughter in 1943, this book collects all the remarkable letters and pictures in one enchanting edition.
Age
8-11
Length
208 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Father Christmas
North Polar Bear
Karhu
Valkotukka
Paksu
Ilbereth
Discussion points
What was your favorite letter from Father Christmas and why did it stand out to you?
How do you think the North Pole is different from where we live?
If you could write a letter to Father Christmas, what would you ask him and why?
Which character in the book would you like to meet and what would you ask them?
How do you think Father Christmas feels when he writes these letters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine their own version of the North Pole, discussing what makes it magical or unique.
Discuss the themes of generosity and kindness in Father Christmas' letters and how we can apply them in our daily lives.
Use the illustrations in the book as a starting point to engage with your child about the art and ask what stories the pictures tell on their own.
Create a fun activity by writing a reply back to Father Christmas together with your child, fostering creativity and writing skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness
Explanation: In 'Letters from Father Christmas', Father Christmas and his helpers show great kindness and care in preparing gifts and writing letters. Their dedication to spreading joy exemplifies compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing kindness in their daily interactions, helping friends or sharing with siblings, reinforcing a positive impact in their surroundings.
Example Lesson: The value of creativity
Explanation: The imaginative scenarios and characters in the letters, like polar bears and elves, encourage creative thinking and the exploration of fantasy worlds.
Real-World Application: Kids can channel their creativity into art projects, storytelling, or imaginative play, enhancing their cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Importance of correspondence
Explanation: The book's premise of writing letters to children annually showcases the significance of staying in touch and maintaining relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to write letters or make cards for family members and friends, supporting their writing skills and emotional expression.
Example Lesson: Perseverance through challenges
Explanation: Father Christmas discusses various challenges he faces, such as problems caused by the mischievous North Polar Bear, teaching resilience and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This illustrates for children how to remain determined and find solutions during difficult situations, whether in schoolwork, sports, or personal tasks.