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Mama Had to Work on Christmas

(2003, Fiction - Family Life, Written by Carolyn Marsden, Illustrated by Robert Casilla)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 5, age appropriate for kids over 7; suggested age 7.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    Gently opens children's eyes to class differences.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 7 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Not an issue.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Not an issue.

  • Sex:

    Not an issue.

  • Language:

    Not an issue.

  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Mama Had to Work on Christmas

Parents need to know that this book explores class differences in a matter-of-fact way. The protagonist at first is angry with her situation, but comes to appreciate how much she has.

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Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about people who work on holidays. Why do they need to work? What do you enjoy doing around the holidays that depends on people giving up time at home with their families? How can you show your appreciation for their sacrifice?
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