The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: A Christmas Holiday Book for Kids (The Best Ever)
#2 of 3 in The Herdmans series
on Goodreads (4,686)
What’s inside...
Laughs abound in this bestselling Christmas classic by Barbara Robinson! The Best Christmas Pageant Ever follows the outrageous shenanigans of the Herdman siblings, or 'the worst kids in the history of the world.' The siblings take over the annual Christmas pageant in a hilarious yet heartwarming tale involving the Three Wise Men, a ham, scared shepherds, and six rowdy kids. Ralph, Imogene, Leroy, Claude, Ollie, and Gladys Herdman are an awful bunch. They set fire to Fred Shoemaker's toolshed, blackmailed Wanda Pierce to get her charm bracelet, and smacked Alice Wendelken across the head. And that's just the start! When the Herdmans show up at church for the free snacks and suddenly take over the Christmas pageant, the other kids are shocked. It's obvious that they're up to no good. But Christmas magic is all around and the Herdmans, who have never heard the Christmas story before, start to reimagine it in their own way. This year's pageant is definitely like no other, but maybe that's exactly what makes it so special. Lionsgate is releasing a live action movie version of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever on November 8, 2024, directed by Dallas Jenkins of The Chosen and featuring actors Judy Greer, Lauren Graham, Elizabeth Tabish, and Pete Holmes, coming to a theater near you!
Character compass
Beth Bradley
Charlie Bradley
Alice Wendelken
Grace Bradley
Leroy Herdman
Ralph Herdman
Imogene Herdman
Gladys Herdman
Discussion points
What do you think makes the Herdmans different from other families in the story?
Why do you think the Herdmans wanted to participate in the Christmas pageant?
How did the Herdmans' involvement in the pageant change the way other characters viewed them?
What did you learn about the true meaning of Christmas from this story?
How can we show kindness and inclusion during the holiday season, like some characters did in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child which character they liked the most and why, to get them thinking about the story's characters and their actions. Encourage them to express how the story might relate to their own experiences with school or community events. Discuss the theme of transformation and redemption, asking them if they've ever changed their opinion about someone. Highlight the importance of empathy by considering what life might be like for the Herdmans. Lastly, make connections to your family's own holiday traditions and discuss the spirit of giving and kindness during the festive season.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The story showcases the transformation of the Herdman kids, initially perceived as mischievous and unruly, through their involvement in the Christmas pageant. Their unique interpretation of the Christmas story helps others see it in a new and meaningful way.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to look beyond first impressions and understand peers who might behave differently. This encourages inclusivity and compassion in daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Redemption and Second Chances
Explanation: The book highlights how characters that are often judged harshly, like the Herdman siblings, can surprise everyone by their capability for change and goodness, especially when given a chance and shown kindness.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches kids the importance of giving others the opportunity to change and not holding past mistakes against them, fostering a forgiving attitude.
Example Lesson: The true spirit of Christmas
Explanation: Through the Herdmans’ participation in the Christmas pageant, the essence of Christmas – peace, goodwill, and compassion – is revealed in an unconventional yet profound manner.
Real-World Application: Children learn that the spirit of holidays lies in understanding, caring for others, and celebrating community, rather than just focusing on presents and material aspects.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family and Community
Explanation: Despite their rough exterior, the Herdman kids’ engagement in the pageant brings them closer to the community. This shift from outsiders to participants illustrates the power of acceptance and support.
Real-World Application: This story encourages kids to value and nurture relationships within their family and community, understanding the strength that lies in unity and shared experiences.