Holiday Book Recommendation The Trees of the Dancing Goats

Holiday read alouds are the BEST! In the coming weeks I am planning on sharing some of my very favorites with you. First up is…The Trees of the Dancing Goats by Patricia Polacco. This is a touching book that really exemplifies the meaning of the holidays.

I am a HUGE fan of Patricia Polacco. Several of her books would make it on my Top 10 Favorites of all time list. This includes some of her holiday books, such as the one I will be sharing with you today. 

This is a touching book about both Hanukkah and Christmas. I love how it celebrates and honors both holidays and their traditions in such a beautiful way. 

This book is based on a childhood memory of Patricia Polacco’s. The main character, Trisha, and her family are all set to celebrate Hanukkah when an epidemic hits their little town. Trisha is exposed to scarlet fever after a visit to the neighbors, and fortunately no one in her family becomes ill. Many of her neighbors are not so fortunate, though. 

As Trisha’s family is celebrating Hanukkah, their hearts are heavy for their neighbors. They come up with an idea to help their friends.

I can’t say enough about the sweet and giving spirit that this book imparts. It is an excellent reminder about what is important during the holiday (both Hanukkah and Christmas) season. 

I have created a simple story comprehension activity to go with this story- you can grab it for FREE here… 

This quick story comprehension activity will have students focusing on Hanukkah and the message in the story. 

 

 

 

If you are looking for additional Christmas related activities to do with your class, you may be interested in checking out these…

 

                

 

 

I hope that you and your students will love The Trees of the Dancing Goats as much as I do! I hope you have a great week!