Three Cheers for Catherine the Great



Last updated Tuesday, April 25, 2006

Author: Cari Best
Date of Publication: 2000
ISBN: 0789426226
Grade Level: 2nd    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: May 2006

Synopsis: Sara's Russian grandmother has requested that there be no presents at her seventy-eighth birthday party so Sara must think of a gift from her heart.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Do you remember the last birthday party you had? Describe it.
•  Do you have a relative who is special to you? What makes this person so special?

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  What do people do to celebrate Catherine?s birthday?
•  What is a ?no present??
•  What kinds of food are served at the party?
•  What are some special foods that your family prepares for celebrations?
•  Sara helps her grandma prepare the food for the party. Do you ever help prepare the food at your home?
•  What kinds of ?no presents? are given to Catherine? What kinds of ?no presents? could you give to your mom or your grandma?

Craft ideas:
•  Create an invitation for a party.
•  Help Sara teach Grandma English. Make a small booklet with important English words.

*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!