The Truth About Mrs. Claus
Exciting book about making your own story at the North Pole.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Truth about Mrs. Claus is holiday picture book for young readers from New York Times bestselling author Meena Harris (Kamala and Maya's Big Idea). The story highlights courage and individuality, and promotes learning across generations. The illustrations are unique and cheerful, capturing readers' attention. In an author's note, Harris says she was inspired to create a story that encourages developing new interests and challenging social norms, in addition to spotlighting an important and often ignored figure from Christmas lore.
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What's the Story?
THE TRUTH ABOUT MRS. CLAUS shares the unknown story of Sarah B. Claus, commonly known as Mrs. Claus. She's not just Santa's wife, but also a loving, bold, and hardworking person. Mrs. Claus bakes cookies and greets the elves, as often as she fixes toys and trains the reindeer. Because of her willingness to go against everyone's traditional expectations of her and her role, she inspires a young elf to do the same.
Amalia the Elf, who comes from a family of teddy bear makers, doesn't find joy in making bears. Instead, she loves writing enchanting stories about the wonderful lives they will have with the children who receive them on Christmas. She's supported by Mrs. Claus, and learns that it's important to be true to yourself and make life changes that will make you happy -- even if they seem scary. But will Amalia actually be able to give up teddy bear making for story writing?
Is It Any Good?
This festive and inspiring story shows a new side to life at the North Pole. The Truth about Mrs. Claus helps readers understand the importance of having courage and redefining other people's expectations and traditions, if that's what you need to be happy. It's a great example of why representation matters, as children see a Black Mrs. Claus who defies stereotypes. This is a fun holiday story for children and adults alike.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how in The Truth about Mrs. Claus, Amalia the Elf comes from, "a long line of proud teddy-bear makers." If your family had a traditional job for generations at the North Pole, what would it be? Would you want to do that job, as well, or be courageous and try something different?
What surprised you most about Mrs. Claus? What do you think Santa Claus spends his time doing?
Amalia is an amazing storyteller. Think about, or write, your own magical story about your favorite toy. Maybe they'll go on an adventure like the teddy bears from the book! Ask a grown-up to help you if you need it.
Book Details
- Author: Meena Harris
- Illustrator: Keisha Morris
- Genre: Picture Book
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Great Girl Role Models, Holidays
- Character Strengths: Courage, Integrity
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
- Publication date: October 18, 2022
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks
- Last updated: October 27, 2022
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