The Nights Before Christmas
#5 of 20 in Heat Series
on Goodreads (77)
What’s inside...
All Suzanne Talbot wants for Christmas is Greg Stone. She's fantasized about the sexy handyman for months. And she's recently heard from other women in her building that leaky pipes aren't all Greg fixes. So she decides to go for it...and quickly learns just how good Greg is with his hands....
All Greg Stone wants for Christmas is Suzanne Talbot. Only, Suzanne's so classy, so sexy, so damn tempting. Why would she want a simple guy like him? But once Suzanne makes the first move, Greg can't resist her. They come together in explosive, sensual encounters that are as mystical, as magical as the season itself. And now all Greg has to do is convince Suzanne that the nights after Christmas can be even better....
Character compass
Greg Stone
Suzanne Talbot
Discussion points
How do you think the characters feel about the approaching Christmas and why?
What traditions in the story would you like to try this Christmas?
What are some ways the characters show kindness to each other?
How does the story's setting contribute to the Christmas spirit?
Can you think of a time when you felt as excited as the characters on Christmas Eve?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences of Christmas to deepen their connection with the narrative.
Ask your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stood out to them, fostering their analytical thinking.
Use the book’s illustrations to prompt discussion about the story’s themes and characters.
Discuss the different emotions characters feel in the story, helping your child understand and express their own feelings.
Propose creating a new family tradition inspired by the book, which can heighten anticipation and engagement with the story’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of giving
Explanation: The story highlights the joy of giving during Christmas as characters share gifts and happiness with each other.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the value of sharing with friends and family, understanding that giving can be as rewarding as receiving.
Example Lesson: The spirit of cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters work together to prepare for Christmas celebrations, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to participate in group activities whether at school or home, promoting a sense of community and collaboration.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The characters show kindness and consideration to each other's feelings, making the festive season joyous for everyone.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by recognizing emotions in others and responding with empathy, which is essential for building strong relationships.
Example Lesson: Respect for traditions
Explanation: The story incorporates various Christmas traditions, teaching children about cultural heritage and respect for customs.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to learn about and honor different cultural practices, both their own and those of others around them.
Example Lesson: Joy in simple pleasures
Explanation: The narrative brings out the happiness derived from simple festive activities like decorating a tree or singing carols.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to find joy in simple, everyday activities and appreciate the small moments that make holidays special.