|
The Grumpus: And His Dastardly, Dreadful Christmas Plan
Last updated Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Author: Alex Smith
Date of Publication: 2024
ISBN: 1529041619
Grade Level: 3rd (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Dec. 2025
Synopsis:
Do you know about The Grumpus?
And his Dastardly, Dreadful Christmas Plan? And about the Awful Thing that happened at the North Pole on Christmas Eve?
Perhaps I should tell you about it...
| Note to readers: |
| • |
Start at Chapter 1 continue reading. It is a funny introduction to the story.
|
| • |
Volunteers can jump to Chapter 6 to read more about the Grumpus' plans to destroy Christmas
|
| Discussion topics for before reading: |
| • |
When do you feel grumpy?
|
| • |
What is your favorite part of Christmas or winter holiday? What is your least favorite part?
|
| • |
If you could celebrate Christmas or winter holiday anywhere in the world, where would it be and with who?
Vocabulary:
|
| • |
Grumpus: a large hairy creature who lives in a wonky town in a wonky house
|
| • |
Grumpy: being in a bad mood and easily annoyedGrouchy: being in a bad mood, feeling cranky, or complaining a lot
|
| • |
Twinkle: to shine with a light that flickers on and off, like a star in the sky
|
| • |
Tinsel: shiny, glittery material made of thin strips of metal, plastic, or paper on a string that people use to decorate things
|
| Discussion topics for during/after reading: |
| • |
If far enough in the story: Why was Grumpus so bothered with Christmas?
|
| • |
The joy of Christmas cheer helped Grumpus change his heart. What helps you get out of a grumpy mood?
|
| • |
What are fun memories you have about Christmas or winter time?
|
| • |
How would you encourage or inspire someone to celebrate a winter holiday?
|
| Craft ideas: |
| • |
Wreath made out of a paper plate. Add cut-out holly leaf shapes from green construction paper and red berries.
|
| • |
Snowflakes. Since they are symmetrical, use coffee filters or round paper cut-outs and fold them and cut them.
|
| • |
Winter snow or Santa Claus using cotton balls
|
| Special activities: |
| • |
What group can make the tallest christmas tree (or snow angel/man) using only tape, a piece of paper, and ~12 popsicle sticks?
|
| • |
Individual or group: have the kids create their own Christmas character, either a good one or a bad one like Grumpus and The Grinch
|
*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions.
You can use them, but you don't have to use them.
You can expand upon them, or add your own twist.
Remember, though, that the focus of your time should
not be on the development and execution of a craft;
the focus should be on the read-aloud and the
enjoyment of the book!
|
