On Christmas Eve

Name: On Christmas Eve
ISBN: 9780439930147

by Ann M. Martin

In 1958, eight-year-old Tess clings to the magic of Christmas Eve, hoping to meet Santa Claus and ask him to use his powers to cure her best friend's father of cancer. It's a poignant story of hope an

About This Book

Ann M. Martin's "On Christmas Eve" tells the heartfelt story of eight-year-old Tess in 1958, who is determined to meet Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. Her deepest wish isn't for herself, but for Santa to use his magic to cure her best friend's father of cancer. This chapter book beautifully explores themes of unwavering belief, the power of friendship, and the difficult emotions surrounding serious illness. It's a gentle yet poignant narrative that can open conversations about hope, fear, and compassion, suitable for children aged 4-11, with younger readers enjoying it as a read-aloud and older ones reading independently.

Eight-year-old Tess is convinced that if she believes and stays aware of the magic around her, she will meet Santa Claus on Christmas Eve of 1958, when she will thank him for his gifts and ask him to use his magic to cure her best friend's father of cancer.

Concepts

Love & Family Friendship & Loyalty Empathy & Kindness Fear & Bravery Sadness & Grief Resilience & Perseverance Curiosity & Wonder Joy & Gratitude Self-Confidence & Identity Family Illness Death of a Loved One Making Friends Growing Up Holidays & Seasonal Friendship & Social Family & Siblings Fantasy & Magic

Heads up, parents

illness

sadness_grief

Discussion Prompts

What does Tess believe about Santa Claus and magic? How does her belief help her?

How do you think Tess feels about her best friend's father being sick? How would you feel?

What does it mean to be a good friend, like Tess is to her best friend?

If you could ask Santa for one magical thing to help someone you love, what would it be?

How do people find hope when they are going through something difficult?

External Reviews