The Elf of Union Square
on Goodreads (26)
What’s inside...
An ancient, crotchety elf named Hiram and his sidekick, a Norwegian rat named Knut, conspire to drive people away from Union Square Park, while fifth-grader Jack Crain and a reporter for the New York Times, Will Manley, investigate. Disgusted with the cleanliness and kindness of the new-and-improved Union Square Park, Hiram the Elf decides to use his mischief to get the folks fighting again in order to bring it back to the good old dirty days filled with chaos.
Age
8-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the choices the elf made in the story? Would you have done something different?
How did the elf’s actions affect those around him in Union Square?
What lessons do you think the elf learned by the end of the book?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone like the elf did?
What is your favorite part of Union Square as described in the book and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences to the story, deepening their connection to the elf’s adventures.
Discuss the moral lessons in the story, highlighting how the elf’s decisions impacted others around him.
Ask questions that prompt your child to think critically about the story’s themes, fostering analytical skills.
Revisit favorite scenes in the book, asking your child to describe them in their own words, improving their recall and narrative skills.
Focus on the descriptions of Union Square, encouraging your child’s interest in different settings and cultural backgrounds.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness
Explanation: In 'The Elf of Union Square', the elf goes out of his way to help the people he meets in Union Square, demonstrating acts of kindness without expecting anything in return.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to help their friends and family, or even strangers, by doing simple acts of kindness like sharing their toys or helping out with chores without being asked.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the story, the elf collaborates with others to solve problems and make the community better. This teamwork effectively shows how working together leads to success.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by working together with their peers in school projects or in sports, learning that collaboration can achieve greater results than working alone.
Example Lesson: Celebrating diversity
Explanation: The elf interacts with a variety of characters from different backgrounds and cultures in Union Square, promoting an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to learn about and respect different cultures and backgrounds, promoting inclusivity in their interactions at school and in their community.
Example Lesson: Courage to try new things
Explanation: The elf is never afraid to venture into new scenarios or assist unfamiliar faces, teaching courage and the willingness to step out of one’s comfort zone.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to try new activities, make new friends, and not be afraid of failing as it is part of learning and growing.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity
Explanation: The elf's adventures begin from his curiosity about the human world, showcasing how curiosity can lead to new experiences and knowledge.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to ask questions and explore their surroundings can lead to lifelong learning and a deeper understanding of the world around them.