The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
The Herdmans series
on Goodreads (189)
What’s inside...
In this hilarious Christmas tale, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids - probably the most inventively awful kids in history. You won't believe the mayhem - and the fun - when the Herdmans collide with the Christmas story head on! This delightful comedy is adapted from the best selling book and the only story ever to run twice in McCall's Magazine. 'An American classic.' -McCall's
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
50 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Beth Bradley
Charlie Bradley
Alice Wendelken
Grace Bradley
Ollie Herdman
Claude Herdman
Leroy Herdman
Ralph Herdman
Gladys Herdman
Imogene Herdman
Discussion points
How do you think the Herdmans changed throughout the story, and what do you think caused that change?
Why is the Christmas pageant so important in the story, and how does it affect the different characters?
What does this book teach us about not judging others based on their reputations?
How do the other characters in the book react to the Herdmans, and what can we learn from their reactions?
If you were part of the Christmas pageant, which character would you want to play and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, focusing on the transformation of the Herdmans and the overall message of acceptance. Draw parallels between the book's themes and real-life situations to deepen understanding. Discuss the different reactions of characters in the book to promote empathy and multiple perspectives. Reinforce the message of not judging others by their appearances or rumors, asking your child for examples from their own experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The Herdman siblings, often misunderstood and judged for their unruly behavior, are portrayed with depth and complexity in the story. As they take part in the Christmas pageant, their unique perspective brings a fresh and sincere take to the traditional story.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of looking beyond surface behaviors to understand and empathize with people's situations and feelings. This encourages them to be more accepting and less quick to judge their peers.
Example Lesson: Redemption and Transformation
Explanation: Despite being the least likely candidates for the lead roles in the pageant, the Herdman kids bring a raw and genuine portrayal that ultimately changes the community's perception of them. This demonstrates that people can change and be seen in a new light.
Real-World Application: This story helps children see the potential for positive change in themselves and others, promoting a mindset of growth and forgiveness.
Example Lesson: The Power of Inclusivity
Explanation: The inclusion of the Herdman children in the Christmas pageant, despite their notorious reputation, leads to a surprisingly poignant and successful show. Their participation illustrates how inclusivity can lead to unexpected and positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to include others, regardless of their background or behavior, in activities. This can lead to enhanced group dynamics and personal development.
Example Lesson: Unconventional Wisdom
Explanation: The Herdmans' unconventional views and actions during the pageant provide new insights into a well-known story, showing that different perspectives can offer valuable lessons.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to value and consider different perspectives and to appreciate that unconventional thinking can lead to meaningful insights and solutions.