Thematic Lists

With more than 80 activities in each book, these valuable resources will enrich your curriculum. For each activity, literature links promote reading, while Internet links encourage the best use of technology. Individual and team projects for K-5 classrooms, connected to NCTE standards.
Includes an activity entitled "Celebration of Light"

The only thing better than making things is making memories. No matter what the season, enjoy gathering together as a family to express your creativity. The hundreds of fantastic projects in this book will spark imaginations and provide hours of fun and conversation through the year.
Includes activities related to Christmas

A theme based curriculum, this book is presented in Alpha order and contains 70 different themes ranging from Ants to Zoo Animals. Each theme contains a variation of the following content depending upon that theme: Curriculum, Web, Theme Goals, Concepts for the Children to Learn, Vocabulary, Bulletin Board, Parent Letter, Music, Fingerplay, Science, Math, Dramatic Play, Arts and Crafts, Sensory, Large Muscle (Gross), Small Muscle (Fine), Field Trips, Social Studies, Group Time, Cooking, Transitions, Books, Multimedia, Recordings and Song Titles. The book sections at the end of each theme have been updated with hundreds of new activities. In addition, an accompanying back-of-book CD-ROM contains important assessment tools, lesson plan forms, evaluation forms for documentation boards, and more.
Includes section related to Christmas

Thoroughly revised and updated, the fourth edition of the classic Storytelling: Art and Technique is an essential guide for beginning and experienced storytellers alike. Ten years ago, Book Report called the third edition of Storytelling: Art and Technique, "invaluable ... a volume no librarian will want to be without." This fourth edition of the classic storytelling "how to" is even better--with 30 percent new material, additional chapters, new stories, and updated bibliographies. This edition provides both a history of storytelling in libraries and accessible instruction for bringing storytelling to contemporary listeners. It details the selection, preparation, and presentation of stories, as well as planning and administration of a storytelling program. Full texts of 13 stories for various ages and occasions are included, as is an extensive list of resources. Bonus essays offer a fascinating international perspective through a survey of storytelling in Ireland and the British Isles and a look at storytelling in contemporary China. Complete with everything one needs to know to launch a successful storytelling program, this is the perfect book for librarians, teachers, parents--and professional storytellers, too.
Includes a chapter entitled "The Legend of the Christmas rose "

Includes a number of activities related to Christmas

Accompanied by the beautiful text of the Gospels, seventeen fine art pieces by award-winning artist J. Kirk Richards tell the timeless story of the birth of Christ. Each of the images, created especially for this book, depict the nativity in a rich palette of deep reds and earth tones, accentuated with metallic gold. More than seven years in the making, these exquisite paintings reflect a deep reverence for the Savior and wonder at His birth. Each page is meticulously designed with text from the scriptures to complement the stunning illustrations. A perfect reminder of the true meaning of Christmas.

Let's celebrate the night when the Three Wise Men following the star to Bethlehem arrived with treasured gifts for Baby Jesus. Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar brought with them gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Gold represented Baby Jesus' royal standing, frankincense his divine birth, and myrrh his mortality. Inspired by their magical journey, this book introduces little ones to beautiful bright colors and their first English and Spanish words. Your child will travel with pink camels through the high desert, and follow the many estrellas amarillasto their destination.

Long ago a man named Artaban and three companions observed a new star in the night sky. They knew it signified the birth of a great teacher, someone who would bring change and hope to the world. There and then they decided to follow the star to pay homage to the newborn child. But along the way Artaban stops to help those in need, and his journey takes him far longer than he could have dreamed. Lovingly written and stunningly illustrated, here is a Christmas story unlike any other, about one man's lifelong search for virtue. The Fourth Wise Man truly captures the real meaning of Christmas and is sure to be a holiday favorite for all ages.

Experience the story of Christmas in a fresh and meaningful way with Birth of the Chosen One, a captivating retelling of the birth of Jesus adapted from the Gospel of Luke in the First Nations Version, an Indigenous translation that recounts the Creator's Story--the Christian Scriptures--following the tradition of Native storytellers' oral cultures. With this dynamic equivalence translation, readers will experience the story of Christmas in a fresh and new way! This fully illustrated picture book celebrates the sacred event of Christ's birth with the vibrant voice of Indigenous oral storytelling. Featuring stunning artwork by Native artists Hannah and Holly Buchanan, children and adults alike are invited to immerse themselves in this unique retelling of the birth of Jesus, the Chosen One.

Children and parents will enjoy this colorful counting book in which adorable animals gather around the baby Jesus on the night of the Holy Nativity. Clever verse and fun illustrations make this narration an ideal way to teach children how to count while they also discover the story of our Savior's birth. This enchanting book includes the sheet music to "Sing to Baby Jesus" by Janice Kapp Perry, which Janice wrote especially for this book

There is a legend that describes how, at midnight on Christmas Eve, all creatures are granted the power of speech for one hour. In this rich collection, Lee Bennett Hopkins and a dozen other poets imagine what responses they might offer. The poems represent a diverse group of animals, but all come together with one singular purpose: celebrating the joy of the miraculous event. This collection of graceful poems provides readers with a Nativity story unlike any other -- at times gently humorous, at times profound, but always inviting readers to appreciate the wonder of Christmas.

Based on the 1872 Christmas carol "In the Bleak Midwinter" by English poet Christina Rosetti, this stunning, wintry picture book from acclaimed author-illustrator Tomie dePaola will be cherished all through the holiday season.
One chilly winter's night, the wind howled over a blanket of snow while in a humble stable, Jesus Christ was born. Angels, shepherds, wise men, and farm animals all gather to share in the still and holy night.

A lamb who has always felt different and sad because of his black spots and his limp, feels his true worth when he is called upon to help keep the baby Jesus warm

On a winter night long ago, a baby boy was born in a stable with only the animals to witness his arrival. But it wasn't just the cows and donkeys and soft little lambs who were present. Smaller, less loved creatures were there, too: the snake, the scorpion, the cockroach, and others. Lyrically written by Eve Bunting and luminously illustrated by Wendell Minor, this beautiful book offers a unique and moving perspective on the Christmas story. It reminds us that all God's creatures, both great and small, celebrated the arrival of the Christ child.

From two extraordinary talents, a beautifully crafted picture book for the Christmas season. The three wise men, or the three kings, are familiar figures in the Christmas tradition. Newbery medalist Linda Sue Park has taken the brief biblical references to the three as the starting point for a new story. In it we meet a boy who is learning his father's trade; a man who gathers resin from certain trees; a merchant in the marketplace; and three strangers in brightly colored robes who are shopping for a gift for a baby. Illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline with exquisite paintings, this simple, moving tale of ordinary people involved in an extraordinary event brings new resonance to the well-known gift list of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

In her Story of Christmas, Sister Wendy uses her refreshing skills of observation to open the eyes of the young reader to the very different ways twenty artists depict the elements of the Christmas Story.

An old owl tells the Christmas story to the community of birds as he has done so many times before, but when he tells of the special message from the Baby Jesus, a little bird questions why they no longer sing the message. "People no longer listen," is the sad realization. The birds decide to share the message once more, but this time to the children of the world. And what unfolds is surely a Christmas wonder

A yule log burns brightly in a fireplace. Children pop open Christmas crackers to get a surprise. Families enjoy treats such as mince pie and plum pudding. These are the sights and sounds of Christmas in England. Come explore the many English traditions that bring people of this country together at Christmas.

Bright red poinsettias decorate homes and churches. Families gather together and sing songs during posadas. Children set out their shoes, hoping they will be filled with presents. These are the sights and sounds of Christmas in Mexico. Come explore the many Mexican traditions that bring people of this country together at Christmas.

Decorations made of straw cover your Christmas tree. A girl dressed in a crown of candles sings songs as she visits people's homes.  People gather together to exchange gifts called julklappar. These are the sights and sounds of Christmas in Sweden. Come explore the many Swedish traditions that bring people of this country together at Christmas.

Star-shaped decorations called parols decorate walls. People gather for a feast called Noche Buena. Singing groups called cumbancheros fill the streets. These are the sights and sounds of Christmas in the Philippines. Come explore the many Philippine traditions that bring people of this country together at Christmas.

Stalks of oats called juleneks hang outside for birds to eat. Homes are decorated with pinecones, heart shaped baskets, and colorful paper chains. On Christmas Eve people leave bowls of porridge for the nisse, an elf like spirit who protects farms. During the Christmas season, people bake many kinds of cookies. They eat pork, boiled potatoes, and a sweet bread with raisins called julekake. These are the sights and sounds of Christmas in Norway. Come explore the many Norwegian traditions that bring people of this country together at Christmas.

Tinsel, candles, and baked decorations called Lebkuchen hang from Christmas trees. Strings of lights decorate lampposts, houses, and stores. Saint Nicholas fills childrens shoes with toys and treats. Carolers walk from house to house singing Christmas songs, and bands play in town squares. These are the sights and sounds of Christmas in Germany. Come explore the many German traditions that bring people of this country together at Christmas.

People pray or sing to presipios, mangers that remind them of where the baby Jesus slept. They decorate Christmas trees with angels, stars, and glass balls. Strings of lights hang from shop windows and decorate the streets. Musicians play in markets while shoppers buy gifts and food for the holiday. These are the sights and sounds of Christmas in Italy. Come explore the many Italian traditions that bring people of this country together at Christmas.

Ornaments and lights decorate Christmas trees. Small, painted figures of animals and people fill creches scenes that look like the place of Jesus birth. Children open gifts on Christmas Day. People eat roasted goose, turkey, chestnuts, and oysters. They go to Christmas plays and musical shows called pastorales. These are the sights and sounds of Christmas in France. Come explore the many French traditions that bring people of this country together at Christmas.

In 1914 France, a British soldier writes to his mother about the strange events of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, when German and Allied soldiers met on neutral ground to share songs, food, and fun. Includes historical notes and glossary

On July 29th 1914, the world's peace was shattered as the artillery of the Austria-Hungary Empire began shelling the troops of the country to its south. What followed was like a row of falling dominoes as one European country after another rushed into war. Soon most of Europe was fighting in this calamitous war that could have been avoided. This was, of course, the First World War. But who could have guessed that on December 25 the troops would openly defy their commanding officers by stopping the fighting and having a spontaneous celebration of Christmas with their "enemies"?

You will be home before the leaves have fallen from the trees. So said Kaiser Wilhelm II to his German army in August 1914. But World War I would rage for more than 4 years, taking the lives of nearly 10 million soldiers. Some of the most unrelenting combat was waged along the infamous Western Front, where, for one unforgettable Christmas in 1914, enemies set guns aside and came together in friendship. And the Soldiers Sang, written by J. Patrick Lewis, recounts this unlikely truce through the perspective of a young soldier named Owen Davies, who travels from the green country of Wales to the muddy battlefields of Belgium.

This moving book about peace, understanding, and unity is based on the real-life World War I event known as the Christmas Truce. It is cold and clear on Christmas Eve night in 1914. Suddenly, a strange sound pierces the darkness. Someone is singing a Christmas carol in German. Francis Tolliver and his fellow British soldiers are holed up in muddy trenches along the Western Front. Their enemies-German soldiers-lie in wait just across a field known as "No Man's Land." As the Germans' carol ends, Tolliver and the other British soldiers sing "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen." Soon carols are being sung back and forth. Then a figure emerges in the dark, carrying a small Christmas tree with lighted candles. The British and German soldiers slowly leave their trenches-and the war-behind to stand together in the open field. This haunting story is adapted by award-winning songwriter John McCutcheon from his song of the same name. Henri Sorensen's traditional, full-color oil paintings reinforce the emotional power and dignity of the story. Back matter provides more information about the historical event, and a CD featuring readings of the story and recordings of "Silent Night" and "Christmas in the Trenches" is included.

'Twas Nochebuena and all through our casa, every creature was kneading tamale masa... It's Christmas Eve, and you're invited to a Nochebuena celebration! Follow a family as they prepare to host a night filled with laughter, love, and Latino tradition. Make tasty tamales and hang colorful adornos (decorations) on the walls. Gather to sing festive canciones (songs) while sipping champurrado (hot chocolate). After the midnight feast has been served and the last gifts have been unwrapped, it's time to cheer, "Feliz Navidad and to all a good night!" Savor the magic of Nochebuena with a holiday tale you'll want to read again and again.

Award winner Robert Sabuda brings Clement Clarke Moore's classic tale of The Night Before Christmas to life in this festive pop-up edition.

Whately brings the classic Christmas story to life with stunning illustrations that capture the imagery of the season--the snowy New England landscapes, the eight flying reindeer, and Saint Nicholas.

Presents the well-known poem about an important Christmas visitor, illustrated by Jan Brett

Exhausted from parties and pageants at school but with presents still to buy, teachers are greeted at the mall by an unexpected helper driving a flying school bus

'Twas the night b'fore Christmas, when all 'round the house, not a critter was stirrin', not even a mouse. So begins this charming adaptation of Clement C. Moore's timeless poem, richly illustrated in full color, with images of a Black family at the turn of the century.

"'Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the base Only sentries were stirring - they guarded the place. The soldiers were sleeping and snoring away As they dreamed of 'back home' on good Christmas Day..."One Christmas Eve at a military barracks in the Middle East, some homesick soldiers are paid a visit by Sergeant McClaus, the Santa of Soldiers. This lively and poignant tale is inspired by Clement C. Moore's classic yuletide poem.

Depicts happenings in countries around the world on Christmas Eve, 1822, while Clement Clarke Moore gives to his family the first reading ever of his poem "A Visit from Saint Nicholas."

From an imperial-era Russian Christmas party, a young girl named Clara is whisked in her dreams to an imaginary world populated by the animated creations of the wizard toy maker Drosselmeier. Clara innocently develops a crush on the imaginary Nutcracker prince. Upon her arrival in the Land of the Sweets, she dances a yearning pas de deux with the Nutcracker Prince. It makes the ballet far more interesting. The frequent involvement of Drosselmeyer throughout the ballet reinforces a magical effect

Audio recording of the Nutcracker. Includes a storybook that is interactive with the music and contains information about the instruments

When Marie and her brother Fritz receive a special Christmas nutcracker from their uncle, Marie immediately feels something magical. "He looks like a real boy," she mused. "A real boy with a secret, who came from far away." This feeling is only the beginning of the epic adventure she goes on with the Nutcracker-into the cabinet, through the battle with the mice, and finally to the magical land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Jan Brett makes this classic her own by setting it in snowy Russia and adding whimsical touches to the favorite elements of the traditional ballet. Enjoying this book will be an instant Christmas tradition for families who love the ballet and those new to the story.

Cuddle up with a classic! In twelve needle-felted scenes and twelve child-friendly words, each book in this ingenious series captures the essence of a literary masterpiece. Simple words, sturdy pages, and a beloved story make these books the perfect vehicle for early learning with an erudite twist. Budding bookworms will delight in this clever retelling of the classics made just for them! In E. T. A. Hoffmann's The Nutcracker, marvel at Maria's favorite gift, cheer as she defeats the Mouse King, and journey to the magical Land of Sweets. It's a festive first words primer for your literary little one!

Every December, The Nutcracker comes to life in theaters all across the United States. But how did this 19th-century Russian ballet become such a big part of the holidays in 21st-century America? Meet Willam, Harold, and Lew Christensen, three small-town Utah boys who caught the ballet bug from an uncle in the early 1900s. They performed alongside elephants and clowns on vaudeville, immersed themselves in the New York City dance scene, and even put on a ballet featuring gangsters at a gas station. Russian immigrants shared the story of The Nutcracker with them, and during World War II--on a shoestring budget and in need of a hit--they staged their own Christmastime production in San Francisco. It was America's first full-length version and the beginning of a delightful holiday tradition. Follow along and learn how The Nutcracker came to be performed all across the United States from these truly humble beginnings.

It's Christmastime, and Tallulah finally gets what she's been wishing for--a part in a real ballet, a professional production of The Nutcracker. She's only a mouse, but she works as hard as if she had been cast as the Sugar Plum Fairy. On the night of the show, everything is perfect. But then disaster strikes! Does Tallulah have what it takes to become a real ballerina? A well-told story, gorgeous illustrations, and a beloved character conspire to make a positively magical Christmas book.

Count the twelve days of Christmas as you dance through a magical holiday festival featuring people, costumes, and instruments from all corners of the globe. It's a diverse and global celebration that brings a fresh new look to the classic song. Never has this rhyme been more enchanting or wide-reaching.

An award-winning author and a rising star artist have put a festive Latino twist on "The Twelve Days of Christmas," populating it with piñatas in place of partridges, plus burritos bailando (dancing donkeys), lunitas cantando (singing moons), and much more, all displayed in the most vivid colors imaginable. In this version a little girl receives gifts from a secret amiga, whose identity is a sweet surprise at the book's conclusion. There are things to find and count in Spanish on every page, with pronunciations provided right in the pictures and a glossary and music following the story. This joyous fiesta will warm even the coldest of hearts.

Illustrations depicting the courtship of two black bears in a woodland setting accompany the words to the traditional Christmas song.

On each of the twelve days of Christmas, unusual or extravagant gifts arrive from a young woman's true love.

This collection includes a number of Peanuts television specials, including "A Charlie Brown Christmas": Charlie Brown has the holiday blues and is hoping that a spindly little tree he finds can help everyone discover the meaning of the season.

The original soundtrack recording of the CBS television special

A collection of classic Peanuts comic strips from the 1950's to the 1990's celebrating the Christmas season

Includes Dr. Seuss's beloved Christmas story--plus 32-pages of commentary and archival images! Inside this very special anniversary edition of How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, you'll find the complete, original text and illustrations by Dr. Seuss, along with 32 fascinating pages of commentary and archival images, written and compiled by renowned Seuss scholar Charles D. Cohen. In chatty, conversational style, Cohen reflects upon Dr. Seuss's changing view of Christmas over the years and traces the evolution of the Grinch, his dog Max, and the inhabitants of Who-ville. Also together for the first time are three rarely seen Seuss holiday offerings: "Perfect Present," a poem about the fluff-footed, frizzle-topped, three-fingered Zift and why it makes the ideal gift; "The Hoobub and the Grinch," a story about a con artist Grinch who sells pieces of green string; and the spiritually compelling painting and poem "A Prayer for a Child."

Includes a number of audio recordings of Dr. Seuss books, including "How the Grinch Stole Christmas"

NWREL's latest addition to the 6+1 Trait Writing collection, Wee Can Write: Using 6+ 1 Trait Writing Strategies With Renowned Children's Literature, shows kindergarten, primary, and upper-preschool teachers how to apply the 6+ 1 Trait Writing model with beginning writers. Developed by kindergarten teachers in conjunction with NWREL 6+ 1 Trait experts, this book ties the literacy needs of very young writers to instructional strategies with creative and developmentally appropriate activities, including assessment of student understanding. Divided into the four seasons of the year, these flexible lessons continuously blend connections among reading, writing, speaking, and creative artwork, supporting a thematic and integrated approach to the writing activities.
Includes an activity related to "How the Grinch Stole Christmas"

The Christmas story and the origin of many holiday traditions are thoroughly detailed in the text of S is for Star: A Christmas Alphabet. The first Christmas cards were printed and sold in the United States by a German immigrant in 1874. Long ago, eating pie was believed to bring good luck, and during the holidays they were baked in an oblong shape to look like a manger. The message of Christmas is a message to all the world and is beautifully conveyed and illustrated in S is for Star. Our tradition of gift-giving is based on the Wise Men's visit to Baby Jesus. Nearly every country has its own gift-giving traditions. In Great Britain, children eagerly await Father Christmas. In France, he is called Pere Noël. In Italy, Befana brings presents, and German and Austrian children wait for a visit from the Christkindl. Celebrate these and many other traditions of the holiday season with S is for Star: A Christmas Alphabet.

After moving from a small village in Mexico to a town in the United States, Eduardo is sure it will never feel quite like home. The other children don't speak his language and they do not play fútbol. His family promises him that he will feel right at home by the time Christmas comes along, when "your words float like clouds from your mouth" and "trees will ride on cars." With whimsical imagery and a sprinkling of Spanish vocabulary, Gretchen Griffith takes readers on a multicultural journey with Eduardo who discovers the United States is not so different from Latin America and home is wherever family is.

Ming wishes for three things at Christmas. First, to sing in the school Christmas choir. Second, to have a Christmas tree like the one in the department store window. And third, to feel she belongs somewhere. As a daughter of immigrants in 1930s California, Ming is often treated differently than other children at school. She's pointedly not invited to sing in the Christmas choir. At home, when Ming lobbies her parents for a Christmas tree, her mother scolds her for trying to be American. Ming doesn't seem to fit in anywhere: she's not quite American enough at school, not quite Chinese enough at home. Seeing his daughter's unhappiness, Pop takes her into the mountains to visit a wise old friend. Always happy for an adventure with her kind father, Ming hopes to persuade Pop to bring home a mountain pine to be their Christmas tree. But he has something else in mind, something that will help Ming draw strength from nature, from their Chinese heritage, and from deep and enduring family ties.

A hilarious holiday tale about the highs and lows of eating one very special Three Kings Day dessert: the Rosca de Reyes, a sweet bread with a figurine of the baby Jesus hidden inside! Marta is finally old enough for her own slice of the special, sneaky dessert she loves so much--la Rosca de Reyes. The colorful crown of sweet bread is so tempting, but Marta knows the truth--there's a baby hiding in the dessert: el Niño Dios. Marta can't help but wonder what will happen if she accidentally eats the little figurine of baby Jesus. Suddenly, Marta will do whatever it takes to avoid picking the last slice of la rosca--no matter how badly she wants a bite! This humorous story of one girl's journey to overcome her fears explores the traditions of Three Kings Day and the importance of family and faith.

One dark November night a stranger rides into a small prairie town. Who is he? Why has he come? The townspeople wish he were a doctor, a dressmaker, or a trader. But the children have the greatest wish of all, a deep, quiet, secret wish. Then a young girl named Lucy befriends the newcomer. When he reveals his identity and shares with her the legend of the candy cane, she discovers fulfillment of her wishes and the answer to her town's dreams. Now will she share what she has learned? Warm, lavish illustrations by James Bernardin bring to life a timeless tale by Lori Walburg, a story that will help families celebrate the mystery and miracle of Christmas--for many Christmases to come.

The Miracle Maker is coming! Everyone in the tiny hamlet is excited when they hear the news that the renowned man of wonders is coming to their village. But the humble traveler who appears isn't what anyone expected. They were looking forward to someone magnificent who would change their lives, but it seems this man can barely take care of himself let alone fulfill the dreams of others

It's Christmas Eve. Gossie and Gertie hang their bright colored boots in the barn. Peedie and BooBoo hang their striped stockings in the barn. Ollie stomps through the snow. It's not easy to wait for Father Christmas Goose! With ample wry humor, beautiful ink-and-watercolor pictures, and irresistible charm, Olivier Dunrea shares the first holiday story of Gossie and friends.Ollie perfectly encompasses the adorable impatience of young children waiting for Christmas to finally come.

Jack loves his childhood toy, Dur Pig. DP has always been there for him, through good and bad. Until one Christmas Eve something terrible happens -- DP is lost. But Christmas Eve is a night for miracles and lost causes, a night when all things can come to life... even toys. And Jack's newest toy -- the Christmas Pig (DP's replacement) -- has a daring plan: Together they'll embark on a magical journey to seek something lost, and to save the best friend Jack has ever known...

"What is the recipe?" I ask. Abuela laughs. "It is in my heart, Rosie. I use mis ojos, my eyes, to measure. Mis manos, my hands, to feel. Mi boca, my mouth, to taste. My abuela gave it to me, and I am giving it to you." Each year on Christmas Eve, Rosie's abuela, mamá, tía, sister, and cousins all gather together in Abuela's kitchen to make tamales--cleaning corn husks, chopping onions and garlic, roasting chilis, kneading cornmeal dough, seasoning the filling, and folding it all--and tell stories. Rosie learns from her abuela not only how to make a delicious tamale, but how to make a delicious life, one filled with love, plenty of spice, and family.

Al Rosen, a Jewish man, takes on the jobs of his Christian neighbors on Christmas Eve and day so they can spend the holiday with their families, starting a tradition that lasts for decades. A mitzvah, as Al explains, is a good deed, especially apt on holidays. A strong cross-over read, this warm story is about kindness and differences bringing people together.

It's Anne's first Christmas in Avonlea, and she is thankful for so many things: feathery frosts and silvery seas, and wreaths as round as the moon. But most of all, she's thankful for her kindred spirits, including Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, who adopted her, and her bosom friend Diana. But Anne is distracted this holiday by having to recite at the upcoming Christmas concert. Can Anne overcome her jitters and make her kindred spirits proud - and also think of a way to show her appreciation for the people she loves?

"Christmas was coming. One morning in mid-December, Hogwarts woke to find itself covered in several feet of snow." So begins Chapter Twelve of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and the heartwarming story of Harry Potter's first Christmas at Hogwarts. From the Great Hall decked with magnificent fir trees to cozy evenings in the Gryffindor Common Room to the joy of presents on Christmas morning, it's a holiday filled with warmth, friendship, good food, and magical surprises that Harry will never forget. With text drawn directly from J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone and luminous illustrations by artist Ziyi Gao, this favorite moment from one of the most beloved books of all time is now fully illustrated for the whole family to enjoy.

It's a holiday season that both Isaac, whose family is Jewish, and Teresa, whose family is Christian, have looked forward to for months! They've been counting the days, playing in the snow, making cookies, drawing (Teresa) and writing poems (Isaac). They enjoy all the things they share, as well as the things that make them different. But when Isaac's window is smashed in the middle of the night, it seems like maybe not everyone appreciates "difference."

Cohn's powerful narrative tells how two children, two families--one Jewish, one Christian--and a community resolve to stand together against the shameful actions that have been happening in their home town. Her story is based on real events that happened in Billings, Montana, in 1993. Farnsworth's beautiful paintings illuminate the message of the power of goodness

There once was an owl who lived in a tree. Until one day her home was uprooted and she was taken far away from what she knew. Follow Rockefeller ("Rocky") the owl as she journeys to the bustling center of New York City and she's discovered among the branches of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. With human kindness and a dash of holiday spirit, can this brave little owl find a new home?

Nothing says Christmas like a Christmas tree, and the Rockefeller Center tree in New York City has said it beautifully since 1931. But how does the tree get there? One year, the tugboat captain (and author) George Matteson, his wife, and their daughter traveled by tug to fetch the giant tree. This dramatic picture book tells the story of their real-life journey up the Hudson River, and James Ransome's striking paintings capture the excitement of the trip and the pride of the young girl who helped steer the tug into New York Harbor.

It's Santa's first Christmas, and he needs to find the perfect team to pull his sleigh so he can deliver gifts to children around the world. All sorts of animals answer his ad: SLEIGH PULLERS WANTED! But sloths are too slow, bunnies are a bit bouncy, and no one seems quite right for the job. Who can Santa turn to?

Celebrate Christmas with the Five Little Monkeys as they try to wait up for Santa Claus in this cozy holiday book. "He won't visit while you're still awake, so go back to bed, for goodness' sake!" It's Christmas Eve, and the Five Little Monkeys are so excited, they can't sleep. They're sure that every little noise they hear is Santa, and not even Mama's and Grandpa's warnings can keep them from jumping out of bed again and again to look! Will those silly little monkeys find a way to get a glimpse of him and his sleigh before the night is over?

Reginald (the zombie), Zarfon (the alien), and Abigail Zink (the human) are all preparing for Christmas in Quirkville when the terrible news breaks: CHRISTMAS IS CANCELED! Santa is snowed in at the North Pole. The three friends hatch a plan to save the day. They load into Zarfon's spaceship-along with lots of peanut butter for a surprise Christmas delivery to his home planet later on-and head straight for the North Pole. When they arrive, they find that Santa and his elves are trapped, not by snow, but by a marshmallow cream explosion. With a little bit of creativity, a little bit of Christmas spirit, and one big KA-POW!, the pals from Quirkville save Christmas and inadvertently create a delicious treat!

Fa La La! Fa La La! Chooo! Chooo! Next stop, the North Pole! It's Christmas Eve, and the Goodnight Train is on a roll, racing mischievous Santa through a winter wonderland. Hear the jingle bells, taste some candy canes, and spy a flying hoof or two on a merry ride to Dreamland--with one magical detour

Billy is an unusual baby--he was born with a mustache! And his pal Javier was born with a beard. Things get even sillier on Christmas Eve when Javier's beard turns white and he becomes Santa Baby! Being Santa Baby is a lot of work--listening to the other babies' Christmas wishes, taste testing treats, and getting the dachshunds, ahem, reindeer, ready for their big night. Luckily, Mustache Baby, AKA Elf Baby, shows up in the St. Nick of time to help make the toys. But when he finishes, he decides to keep them all for himself! Hijinks ensue, landing Mustache Baby firmly on the naughty list. That is until a visit from Santa Grownup reminds him that it is much more fun to give than to receive.

For 364 days of the year, Santa and his best friend, Peppermint Bark, are inseparable. Santa's fluffy white dog helps herd the reindeer, keep tabs on the elves, and check the list--twice. But though Peppermint Bark asks every Christmas, he never gets to join Santa on his sleigh ride around the world. Until the dog decides to stow away . . .
When eight- and eleven-year-old Chris and Holly Kerstman discover a small white dog wedged in their chimney on Christmas morning, they can't imagine where he came from, until he tells them. Peppermint Bark is unlike any dog they and Holly's best friend, Ivy, have ever met: His breath smells of mint, faint jingle bells can be heard when he wags his tail, and he can talk! He tells the kids all about his secret sleigh ride and how he got accidentally left behind on their rooftop, but when it comes to answering the question of how he'll get home to the North Pole, Peppermint Bark is stumped. It's up to the kids to work together to get Peppermint Bark home before the last magical portal to the North Pole closes at midnight on Christmas Day.

It's almost time for Christmas, and Maria is traveling with her mother and younger brother, Juan, to visit their grandmother on the border of California and Mexico. For the few minutes they can share together along the fence, Maria and her brother plan to exchange stories and Christmas gifts with the grandmother they haven't seen in years. But when Juan's gift is too big to fit through the slats in the fence, Maria has a brilliant idea. She makes it into a kite that soars over the top of the iron bars. Here is a heartwarming tale of multi-cultural families, and the miracle of love.

Freddy Melcher is Santa's #1 Fan. He has Santa posters, Santa action figures, and even Santa underwear. But there is one prize Freddy desperately wants: A photograph taken with Santa, fresh out of the chimney. Oh, is it risky! It's awfully hard to sneak anything by someone who can see you when you're sleeping and knows when you're awake. That's why Freddy has been extra good this year . . . at hiding his plans. Will Freddy get away with his delightfully devious scheme to outwit Santa Claus himself and capture the ultimate selfie?

This is the fascinating true story of a family tragedy behind the writing of the beloved hymn, It Is Well With My Soul in the 19th century.

Inspired by the classic tale "The Gift of the Magi," the story begins in a poor country cottage, as Emmet Otter dreams of buying Ma a piano for Christmas, while Ma dreams of buying Emmet a guitar. When a village talent contest is announced, both imagine their dreams coming true. But what they don't imagine finding is their real reward -- the power of love, family, and hope in hard times It is a story that reaches into a reader's heart and reminds us all that fortune favors the brave.

A World of Cookies for Santa takes readers across the globe to see all the treats that await Santa on Christmas Eve. Head to the Philippines, where children leave out puto seko cookies and ginger tea for Santa; jet to Russia for a honey-spice cookie; then set out for Malawi for a sweet potato cookie! When you've returned home, the journey's still not over--M. E. Furman provides recipes for children to bake some of Santa's cookies for themselves

Young Truman Capote thought life in New York City was going to be perfect, but things didn't work out as planned. In fact, Tru is downright miserable. So he decides to run away to Monroeville, Alabama, and the only friend he's ever had, Nelle Harper Lee. But things don't go well there, either. Bad things seem to happen wherever he goes. The only explanation: he must be cursed. Christmas is coming, and Tru's only wish is to be happy. But it'll take a miracle for that to come true. Luckily, a special feast brings the miracle he's hoping for. Tru and Nelle: A Christmas Tale is based on the real life friendship of Truman Capote and Harper Lee.

This beautifully illustrated edition shares the story of a young girl who attempts to sell her last bundle of matches on Christmas Eve. As the snow falls and the crowds pass her by, she strikes one of her matches, hoping for a little warmth. In its flame, she sees a vision of a roaring fire in a hot stove. The match goes out, taking the vision with it. A second match conjures a vision of a vast dining room complete with a feast fit for a king. The third match reveals a towering Christmas tree. With only a few matches left, she strikes them all and sees a vision of her beloved grandmother. Only this time, it is more than a vision as the spirit of grandmother takes the little match girl with her into heaven.

Rory and Sheldon are just regular guys, going to school, having playdates, and, of course, counting down the days until Christmas. But when a furious bear starts wreaking havoc in their calm wood, Rory and Sheldon are there to save the holiday as...the Super-Duper Duo! They use their super-duper powers--and their knowledge about animal hibernation--to calm the crazed carnivore and keep the peace.

Bear's friends are determined to keep Bear awake for Christmas! So they wake Bear up and have him help them find a Christmas tree, bake cakes, hang up stockings, and sing Christmas songs. Bear stays up--by discovering that giving is one of the best Christmas presents of all!

Offering a fresh twist on Kris Kringle, a clever yet heartfelt book that tells the story of a black Santa, his white husband, and their life in the North Pole. Everyone knows that Santa Claus is jolly, but in Santa's Husband, this cherished symbol of the holiday season is also black and gay, and married to an equally cheery man. In this witty and sweet illustrated Christmas tale, humor writer Daniel Kibblesmith introduces us to Mr. and Mr. Claus, and gives us a glimpse of their lives together. We see the Clauses sitting by the fire at their cozy North Pole home, vacationing at the beach, having an occasional disagreement, celebrating their wedding day, and comforting each other when some loudmouth people on television angrily dispute Santa's appearance and lifestyle. In the weeks before Christmas, Santa's husband helps with all the pre-Christmas work, from double-checking lists, to feeding the reindeer (organic gluten-free grains, of course), to negotiating labor disputes with the restive workshop elves. At the height of toy-making season, he even fills in for his busy hubby at the mall to ensure every child can meet the Big Guy in the red suit, and give him their wish list. As this charming book reminds us, Santa Claus can come in all shapes and colors and sizes-just like the children and families he visits all over the world each Christmas eve.

When Slipper finds Mr. Furry Boots in her house, she does what any cat would do and investigates. But curiosity gets the best of her when she finds herself on a trip she hadn't planned on taking . . .Join Slipper as she discovers that there's no place like home--especially for Christmas.

Lonely Hannah is delighted to discover a warm black boot as she gathers kindling in the forest. A poor woman, she doesn't have proper shoes on her cold feet. "Glory be! I only wish I had your mate," she says to the boot, and the next morning, to her great surprise, there is not just one boot but two sitting by her bed! More wishes bring even better gifts-but the best is still to come- A visitor arrives at her door-a man with a big white beard, wearing a red suit and only one boot. Who could this magical visitor be? Santa Claus, of course! And he has one more surprise in store for Hannah- She wakes up the next morning to find a new puppy waiting for her!

Young Steve Satlow is thrilled when his hero Jackie Robinson moves onto his block. After the famed second baseman invites Steve to a Dodgers game, the two become friends. So when Jackie hears that the Satlows don't have a Christmas tree, he decides to give them one, not realizing the Satlows are Jewish. But Jackie's gift helps these two different families discover how much they have in common. Written by the daughter of baseball legend Jackie Robinson and illustrated by a Caldecott Honor winner, Jackie's Gift is a holiday tale-based on a true story-about friendship and breaking barriers.

Eight-year-old Steve Satlow is thrilled when Jackie Robinson moves into his Jewish neighborhood in Brooklyn in 1948, although many of his neighbors are not, and when Steve actually meets his hero he is even more excited--and worried that a misunderstanding over a Christmas tree could damage his new friendship.

In this sweet picture book, Laura retells the first Christmas that she and Maurice spent together. She shares how Maurice gave her a small white bear--as she later learns, the only thing he had that he could truly call his own--to show her how grateful he was for their friendship. This heartwarming tale captures the true meaning of the holidays and will be one you'll want to share with your family year after year as a reminder that a gift from the heart is always the best present under the tree.

It's Christmas Eve and Mami has bought a delicious roast for a Christmas feast. But, oh no! It's too big to fit in the oven. Jose and Papa need to find an oven big enough to cook Mami's roast. As they walk from door to door through their apartment building, no one seems to be in the Christmas spirit. So they head down the street to find someone willing to help, and only when they do, lo and behold, the scent--the itself magical smell--of dinner begins to spread, and holiday cheer manifests in ways most unexpected.

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Little Blue Truck is spreading cheer by delivering Christmas trees to his animal friends. Can you help count each green tree from one to five and back again? Don't forget to save one for Blue! Beep! Beep!

Virginia's coat is too small and hardly protects her from the frigid South Dakota winter. As Christmas approaches, all the children on the Sioux reservation look forward to receiving boxes full of clothing sent by congregations in the East. Virginia spots a beautiful gray fur coat but holds back tears as it is claimed by one of her classmates. Later, Virginia can't believe what Mama brings home. Based on an event from the author's childhood, this picture book captures the true spirit of Christmas.

As a boy, Thomas S. Monson yearned for an electric train. To his delight, on Christmas morning he got exactly that-a train that operated through the miracle of electricity. Then he noticed a second train that his mother had purchased for the boy down the street whose family was struggling. Although it was only a wind-up train, it had a beautiful oil tanker car, which little Tommy wanted for his own. Soon after, Tommy's mother invited him to accompany her to the neighbor's home to deliver the gift. Young Mark was thrilled with his new train and, of course, didn't notice the missing train car. However, a remorseful Tommy did. What happened next will bring the spirit of Christmas into every heart and home.

According to Scaredy Squirrel, Christmas is indeed the most wonderful time of the year, but it's also the scariest. Luckily, Scaredy is prepared - and you can be, too! He's put together this Safety Guide which is full of advice for dealing with potential dangers one might face during the festive season. Included are step-by-step instructions for building a gingerbread house, a shopping guide for tricky personality types and a variety of safety tips throughout. Last but not least, at the end of the book is Scaredy's all-encompassing sure-fire solution: If all else fails... play dead!

The holidays are filled with joyful noise. But Christmas is sometimes wrapped in quiet: "Searching for presents quiet," "Getting caught quiet," and "Hoping for a snow day quiet." Irresistibly cute, soft colored pencil illustrations of bunnies, bears, and more paint a magical holiday picture indeed.

One winter solstice, Mommy says, 'Baby, we're going home to the Rez. We're going to have an Anishinaabe Christmas.' But this is Baby's first Christmas away from the city, and they're worried! They have a lot of questions: How will Santa know where to find them? Why do we have presents on Christmas? How come they're going home to the Rez but don't live there? On the long trip to Mooshom's and Kookom's, Baby learns about animals being part of their family, about the North Star leading them home and even the meanings of some Anishinaabe words. Will this Anishinaabe Christmas be Baby's best yet?

"Slept. Scratched. Slept." Indeed, it seems like Christmas will be just another day for the wombat . . . until she smells carrots! In this charming picture book, the star of Diary of a Wombat goes head to head with Santa's reindeer in competition for carrots--and wins. Then, as an accidental stowaway on Santa's sleigh, she learns that carrots are internationally available. No wonder she isn't hungry for treats on Christmas morning! Engaging illustrations delightfully complement the spare text in this unique, wombat's-eye view of a favorite holiday.

Turkey is in trouble. Again. He made it through Thanksgiving without becoming a turkey dinner, but now it's almost Christmas, and guess what's on the menu? Turkey decides the only thing to do is to ask Santa for help. He sets off for the North Pole, but getting in to see Santa at Christmastime isn't as easy as Turkey expected. It's going to take all his ideas--and his clever disguises--to find a way into Santa's house. After many hilarious attempts, Turkey comes up with the perfect disguise, and Santa has the perfect solution!

Christmas is around the corner, and Heidi is very excited. She loves Christmas decorations, Christmas cookies, and, best of all, Christmas presents! But when she takes her mom's special charm bracelet without asking--and then loses it--Heidi fears that her mom will be angry with her. And when she finally finds the bracelet, it has been totally crushed by a snowplow. Heidi tries to fix the broken bracelet with a spell, but that only makes things worse! Will Heidi have the courage to come clean and tell her mom the truth--and will there still be room for Christmas cheer? With easy-to-read language and illustrations on almost every page, the Heidi Heckelbeck chapter books are perfect for beginning readers.

Christmas from Heaven is the story of the humble beginnings of what became a beacon of hope to a war-torn land, the story of Gail Halvorsen, a young pilot in the US Army Air Corps who was assigned as a cargo pilot to the Berlin Airlift, in which US forces flew much-needed supplies into a Soviet-blockaded Berlin. As he performed his duties, Lt. Halvorsen began to notice the German children gathered by the fences of Tempelhof Air Base. Knowing that they had very little, he one day offered them some chewing gum. From that small act, an idea sprang: He would "bomb" Berlin with candy. Fashioning small parachutes, he and his crew sent them floating down as they approached the Berlin airport, wiggling the wings of their C-54 as a signal to the children that their anticipated cargo would soon arrive. Lt. Halvorsen became known by hundreds, if not thousands, of children in Berlin as "Uncle Wiggly Wings" or "The Candy Bomber." Word soon spread, and donations of candy and other supplies poured in from sympathetic Americans. Lt. Halvorsen's small idea became a great symbol of hope not only to German children in a bombed-out city but to all those who yearned for freedom.

Little Santa loves the North Pole. The rest of his family? Not so much. So, when they decide to move to Florida, Santa is miserable. Lucky for him, a blizzard foils their plans. The only way out of the house is up the chimney. Up goes Santa, to look for help, and along the way, he meets a reindeer and a large group of elves, who are more than eager to join in the rescue!

Boris is a musician, playing the songs he learned growing up in Russia. Stella is a baker, baking cakes and pastries like her father used to back in Italy. Boris and Stella live in the city and are best friends. They like movies, hats, and each other. At holiday time, Stella wants to give Boris the perfect present for Hanukkah. She wants him to know how special he is. Boris wants to give Stella the perfect present for Christmas--she means so much to him. But perfect presents cost money and their savings banks contain very little. To make their dreams of perfect presents come true, Boris and Stella each sacrifice something very special. In a nod to O. Henry's The Gift of the Magi comes this tender story celebrating traditions, friendships, and gifts from the heart.

Christmas is coming! Carter and Grandma shop for gifts, visit Santa, pick out a tree, and decorate cookies. On Christmas Eve, they go to church. Then they open presents and share a big meal with family on Christmas Day. Find out how people celebrate this special time of year!

Goodly, Lovely, Angel, Neatly, Perfect, and Tacky are having a wonderful Christmas, complete with an unusual tree, when Tacky's odd behavior saves them from a group of hunters

After they prepare their traditional Puerto Rican celebration, Eric and Grandma visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art for a school project, where he sees a painting by Diego Velasquez and realizes for the first time that he could be an artist when he grows up. Grandma witnesses his fascination, and presents Eric with the perfect Christmas gift-a sketchbook and colored pencils-to use in his first steps toward becoming an artist. A heartwarming story of self-discovery, Grandma's Gift is a celebration of the special bond between a grandparent and grandchild.

A Level 1 reader with holiday search-and-find fun by bestselling author/photographer Walter Wick! From the photographer of the bestselling I Spy books and creator of the Can You See What I See? series is a new Christmas search-and-find reader chock-full of fun! Children can read the simple text and use the picture clues to search for dozens of hidden trinkets and toys! An illustrated word list in the back of the book provides extra support for the newest readers!

It's Christmastime! And irrepressible, excitable Curious George has just the spirit for it. He can't wait to help his best friend, The Man with the Yellow Hat, pick out their holiday tree. At the tree farm, however, amid all the excitement of finding the perfect specimen, George gets carried away, as usual--atop his favorite tree! Hiding in the tree's branches, George finds himself delivered to the local children's hospital, where his tree trimming antics cheer the children and he gets to meet a jolly man in a bright red suit.

On a small, dusty farm in Mexico, in the Valle de Guadalupe, a young boy named Pablo lived with his mother, father, and two little sisters, Isabella and Teresa... Christmas means family: everyone gathered together in joyful celebration. But what if one beloved member is missing? That's the situation so movingly explored in this exceptional--and stunningly illustrated--holiday tale, set in the Mexican countryside. Because Mama is going to have a new baby, Pablo's father has gone off to America to earn extra money. That makes Pablo the man of the house--chasing coyotes away from the hens, comforting his worried mother and sisters, and trying to make presents for everyone. Now Christmas is near--when Papa has promised to return. Will he be home for the holidays? Children will hang on to every word eagerly and sympathetically...right until the satisfying, and happy, ending.

Dive into three new stories about Narwhal's favorite time of the year! It's the festive season in the world wide waters, and Narwhal is looking forward to cozying up with a good book, singing and partying with pod pals and enjoying some warm waffle pudding. But most of all Narwhal is excited about the arrival of the Merry Mermicorn! According to Narwhal, she's part mermaid, part unicorn and completely mer-aculous! Jelly is of course skeptical about the existence of the "Mira-Miny-What-A Corn" . . . even when he receives a mysterious present. It must be from Narwhal. Now Jelly has to get the perfect gift, but finding a present for someone as unique as Narwhal is no easy feat, even when you have six tentacles. How will Jelly ever come up with a whaley great gift for a best pal who spreads cheer all through the year?

Includes a song related to Christmas

These open-ended Holiday & Seasonal Chipper Chat game boards will provide hours of fun all year 'round. The open-ended, themed game boards display celebrations, holidays, famous Americans' birthdays, and national observances every month of the year from back to school to the end of summer.
Choose your teaching topics: articulation, fluency, reading, math...any lesson! Students earn magnetic chips by making correct responses. After filling a game board with chips, the fun begins as the students move the magnetic wand over them and watch the chips "fly!"
Contains a game board related to Christmas