Merry Christmas, Little Elliot
#5 of 5 in Little Elliot Series
on Goodreads (350)
What’s inside...
Best friends Little Elliot and Mouse are back for another adventure--and this time, they're looking for Christmas spirit! Little Elliot the elephant isn't quite sure what Christmas spirit is, but he suspects he doesn't have it. Not even a visit to Santa Claus can put Elliot in the right mood. But when chance blows a letter for Santa into Elliot and Mouse's path, the two friends discover what Christmas is all about--and make a new friend, too. A heartfelt celebration of the season of giving! Perfect for sharing around the holidays. Godwin Books
Character compass
Little Elliot
Mouse
Discussion points
How do you think Little Elliot feels when he sees the Christmas lights in the city?
What are some ways that Elliot and Mouse show kindness to others in the story?
Why do you think it is important to have friends and family around during special occasions like Christmas?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone else feel better during the holidays?
What's your favorite part of the Christmas celebration in the book and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about Christmas and what it means to them, setting a personal connection to the story.
Encourage your child to describe the illustrations, fostering a deeper understanding of the story’s atmosphere.
Pause at key moments in the story to give your child a chance to reflect on how the characters are feeling, promoting empathy and emotional intelligence.
After reading, relate the story to your child’s own experiences of Christmas or other family gatherings to make the themes more relevant.
Discuss the acts of kindness in the book and brainstorm ways you and your child can spread holiday cheer, just like Elliot and Mouse.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: In 'Merry Christmas, Little Elliot', Little Elliot and his friend Mouse discover the true meaning of Christmas through their adventures together, emphasizing the value of friendship.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and nurture relationships with their peers, understanding that true happiness often comes from caring for others more than material possessions.
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Little Elliot and Mouse enjoy giving gifts to others, which brings them joy and satisfaction, showcasing the happiness that comes from generosity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take pleasure in acts of kindness and consider the feelings of others, fostering a giving spirit.
Example Lesson: Courage in trying new things
Explanation: Elliot explores new parts of the city and tries different holiday activities, illustrating his courage in facing the unfamiliar.
Real-World Application: It inspires children to embrace new experiences and find joy in discovery, helping them grow more adaptable and confident.
Example Lesson: Appreciating small joys
Explanation: The character’s journey highlights the beauty of small moments, like enjoying a warm cup of cocoa or watching snowflakes fall, teaching children to notice and value simple pleasures.
Real-World Application: It helps children find happiness in everyday moments and can improve mindfulness and gratitude in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of traditions
Explanation: Little Elliot and Mouse participate in various holiday traditions, which strengthens their bond and creates lasting memories, showing the role traditions play in cultural and familial bonding.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to partake in and respect their own family traditions, enhancing their sense of identity and belonging.