The Christmas Snowman

Author/Illustrator: Chris Angelilli/ Anne Kennedy

About the Author:

Chris Angelilli is a published American author. He has published books such as The Christmas Snowman and Wacky Witch.

Genre: Fiction/Holidays
Grade Level: K-1

Synopsis:
The Christmas Snowman is about two children, Nick and Carol who one morning decide they will build  a snowman. They named their snowman Chris because it was so close to Christmas time.  Chris, the snowman, did not know what Christmas was so he watched what Nick and Carol did with their family to find out.  Chris saw the family decorating, getting a tree, leaving milk and cookies for Santa and finally opening presents in the morning.  Chris thought Christmas was great only he wished that he was able to be with his family. Nick and Carol brought Chris out a present, a brand new scarf and Chris was so happy to be a part of Christmas.

Pre Reading Activity:

Make a list of what the Children believe Christmas is about.  Keep the list on the board while reading to compare what they said and what is in the story.

Post Reading Activity:

Have the students draw what they do on Christmas with their families that makes Christmas special for them.  The children will probably have some ideas that are the same and some that are very different.  Have the students explain to the class about their special family events.

Reflection:

I enjoyed this Christmas book because it was good for the younger age groups.  A lot of children celebrate Christmas but at a very young age some may not know what it is.  This book is an excellent way to explain what families do for Christmas.  It also shows children using their imaginations because their snowman, Chris, is a live and can be part of their family.