The Christmas Carrolls
#1 of 3 in The Christmas Carrolls Series
What’s inside...
Funny, festive middle grade about the world's most Christmassy family from the founder of Authorfy, perfect for 8+ readers and fans of Matt Haig, Men Miller, Sibeal Pounder's 'Tinsel' and the Nativity! films. Wish it could be Christmas every day? Well, for nine-year-old Holly Carroll and her family, it is! Living her merriest life in a house with year-round fairy lights and Christmas trees, a carol-singing toilet and a diva monkey who thinks he's a reindeer, home-schooled Holly tries to spread cheer wherever she goes. But when she goes to a new school with a singing Santa backpack and first day Christmas cards (during a heatwave in September!), she realizes not everyone shares her enthusiasm for spreading cheer. In fact, when the neighbors try to remove the Carrolls from the street and Holly discovers a group of children that may not get a Christmas at all, her snow globe world begins to crack. Is the world's most Christmassy girl about to lose her Christmas spirit? 'THE CHRISTMAS CARROLLS' is a heartwarming, hilarious and inclusive tale about the power of spreading cheer, the magic of friendship and what really matters at this most wonderful time of year.
Character compass
Holly Carroll
Ebony
Discussion points
How would you feel if you lived in a family like the Carrolls, who celebrate Christmas all year round?
What do you think makes the Carroll family similar to or different from our family?
What lessons did Bella learn about friendship and community in the story?
How do you think the town's perception of the Carrolls changed throughout the book?
If you could add a new tradition to the Carroll's Christmas celebrations, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use pauses after each question to give your child time to think and articulate their thoughts.
Relate the discussion to your child’s experiences by asking them about their feelings and thoughts on family traditions and community.
Encourage empathy by discussing the emotions of different characters and asking your child how they would feel in similar situations.
Highlight the importance of community and inclusiveness, and ask your child for ideas on how they can contribute to their community.
After discussing the book, engage in a fun activity like creating a mini Christmas decoration together, drawing on themes from the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness
Explanation: Throughout 'The Christmas Carrolls', the Carroll family showcases kindness to everyone in their community, spreading joy and love.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by helping out at home, sharing with their friends, or participating in community service.
Example Lesson: Valuing family and togetherness
Explanation: The story emphasizes the joy and support that comes from family gatherings and shared experiences, which the Carrolls cherish.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to appreciate family time, such as eating meals together or partaking in family game nights.
Example Lesson: Embracing uniqueness
Explanation: The Carroll family stands out because they celebrate Christmas every day, demonstrating that being different is something to be proud of.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be proud of what makes them unique and to respect others' differences as well.
Example Lesson: The spirit of giving
Explanation: In the book, the Carrolls are always giving to others, not just material gifts but also love and time.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be generous not just during holidays, but all year round by sharing and caring for others.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Despite facing skepticism from others, the Carrolls maintain their cheerful spirit, showing resilience and positive attitude.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to remain positive and steadfast, even when faced with difficulties or when others do not understand them.