Stick Man
By Julia Donaldson
What's special about this book?
Imagine a charming little stick figure who longs to be with his family during Christmas time! In Stick Man, Julia Donaldson captures the hearts of children with her playful rhymes and the beautiful illustrations by Axel Scheffler. Kids adore Stick Man's adventurous journey, while parents appreciate the themes of family, resilience, and the magic of helping others, making it a perfect read for the holiday season.
Read-aloud tips
To bring Stick Man's adventure to life, create a cozy reading nook with soft blankets and twinkling lights to mimic the holiday spirit. Use an animated voice for Stick Man and a playful tone for the mischievous dog, enhancing the excitement of the story. Engage your child by pausing to ask them how they think Stick Man feels in various situations and encouraging them to mimic the actions of the characters, like pretending to throw a stick for the dog.
Discussion questions
- What kinds of adventures does Stick Man go on after he gets taken away by the dog?
- Can you think of a time when you felt far away from your family? How did it make you feel?
- If you were Stick Man, how would you find your way back home, and who would you want to help along the way?
Fun activities
After reading Stick Man, gather some sticks from your yard or a local park and create your very own stick family! You can use twine or string to tie them together and draw faces on them with markers. This activity fosters creativity and helps children connect with the themes of family bonds and the importance of home. Alternatively, you can also create a holiday card for someone special, inspired by Stick Man's journey home, encouraging your child to express their feelings and the joy of giving.