Four Friends at Christmas



Last updated Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Author: Tomie dePaola
Illustrator: Tomie dePaola
Date of Publication: 2002
ISBN: 0689852827
Grade Level: 1st    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Dec. 2007

Synopsis: Mister Frog has slept through Christmas every year, and every year he has listened to his three friends talk about how wonderful it is. This year, Mister Frog is determined not to miss it -- but oh, if he could just take one small nap....

Note to readers:
•  Hear and see this book read aloud on YouTube

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Read the back of the book. What makes it the best Christmas ever?
•  Whose tree is in the back?

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  What kinds of animals hibernate?
•  What things do you eat at Christmas?
•  How do you decorate your house?
•  What do you think will happen when he naps?
•  Do you ever give presents to your friends?
•  After the second Santa, How are there two?
•  Why does the tree have dog bones on it?
•  Do you sing Christmas carols? At home? At school?
•  Do you go shopping with your family? Do you wait until Christmas Eve?
•  Do you stay up all night to see Santa?
•  What happens when they fall asleep?

Craft ideas:
•  Draw Christmas trees, animals dressed as Santa
•  Make Santa hats, Christmas trees, candles out of construction paper

*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!