The Truth About Christmas
The truth about Series
on Goodreads (57)
What’s inside...
The paperback is a fact-filled, fun-packed book that unravels the truth about Christmas and its traditions. It provides answers to many questions including who decided to celebrate Jesus' birthday on 25th December, who was Saint Nicholas, why we kiss under the mistletoe, and the origins of various other Christmas traditions such as the advent calendar, Christmas cards, and the Yule log. The book delves into the history and reasoning behind these traditions, making it a delightful read for anyone curious about the festive season. Who decided to celebrate Jesus' birthday on 25th December...and why? Who exactly was Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus)? Why do we kiss under the mistletoe? When was the first Christmas card sent? What on earth has a Yule log to do with Christmas? What does 'nativity' actually mean? Did Father Christmas really used to wear green? Who invented the advent calendar? What do frankincense and myrrh look like? What do crackers have to do with Christmas? Where do the flying reindeer come from? Was there really once meat in mince pies? What's all the holly and ivy for? Why are carols called carols? What exactly is a manger? Why are Christmas puddings Christmas-pudding shaped? Why hang Christmas wreaths to celebrate Christ's birth? Were Christmas trees really introduced to England by Prince Albert? Why have a fairy, not an angel at the top of the tree? These are just some of the questions you'll find answered in this fact-filled book.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-12
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think is the most important part of celebrating Christmas?
How do the characters in the book show kindness and generosity?
Why is it important to tell the truth, even during the holiday season?
How did the story make you feel about the spirit of Christmas?
What would you do differently if you were a character in this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by sharing your own favorite Christmas tradition and ask your child to share theirs. Use examples from the book to illustrate points about truth and honesty, making connections to real-life situations. Encourage your child to think about the consequences of actions by discussing the characters’ choices in the story. Be open to hearing their interpretations and feelings about the book, validating their thoughts and emotions. After the conversation, consider engaging in a Christmas-related activity that aligns with the themes discussed, like donating to a charity or writing honest letters to family.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: The story portrays characters who learn the value of being truthful, especially about the origins and meaning of Christmas.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing honesty in their daily interactions and understanding the significance of truthful communication.
Example Lesson: The spirit of giving
Explanation: Characters in the book demonstrate the joy and satisfaction derived from giving to others during the holiday season.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to practice generosity, not just during holidays, but as a part of their everyday behavior, enhancing their emotional growth and empathy towards others.
Example Lesson: Respecting diverse cultures and traditions
Explanation: The book introduces various Christmas traditions around the world, highlighting cultural diversity.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate and respect different cultural practices and traditions they encounter in school and their community.