Holiday Mentor Texts for Big Kids (and tips for using them!)

  

It's the holiday season and that means it's time for my FAVORITE picture books! While many holiday books are geared toward younger students, there are plenty of great options that engage upper elementary and promote critical thinking, discussion, and writing.

In this post, I’ve compiled a list of holiday-themed mentor texts that are perfect for your students. These books are more than just fun reads—they provide valuable teaching moments and  reinforce ELA skills. I'll also share strategies for incorporating them into your lessons!

The Legend of the Poinsettia By: Tomie dePaola

Literary Elements: Folklore, Symbolism

Themes to Explore: Giving, Tradition, Family

In this Mexican folktale, a young girl named Lucida learns the importance of giving when she creates a special gift for the Christ child. The story explores how the poinsettia came to symbolize love and sacrifice. This is a great resource for discussing the meanings behind holiday customs.

Check out my FULL DAY of lesson plans to accompany The Legend of the Poinsettia. This includes activities for reading writing, math, science, AND social studies. Fill the whole day with fun learning!

You can also try out my FREE writing lesson for The Legend of the Poinsettia here!

Red and Lulu  By: Matt Tavares

Literary Elements: Personification, Plot Structure

Themes to Explore: Friendship, Adventure, Change

When Red's tree is moved to Rockefeller Center, he goes on an adventure to find his partner, Lulu. This story teaches the value of home, friendship, and change. It is perfect for exploring character development, personification, and plot structure. 

Check out my FULL DAY of lesson plans to accompany Red and Lulu. This includes activities for reading writing, math, science, AND social studies. Fill the whole day with fun learning!

You can also try out my FREE comprehension activity for Red and Lulu here!

The Polar Express By: Chris Van Allsburg

Literary Elements: Fantasy, Imagery

Themes to Explore: Belief, Imagination, Magic

In this classic story, a young boy travels to the North Pole on a magical train. Here he learns the true meaning of Christmas and the power of belief. The rich imagery makes it an ideal text for teaching theme and the significance of symbols in stories.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas  By: Dr. Seuss

Literary Elements: Characterization, Plot Twist

Themes to Explore: Kindness, Redemption, Christmas Spirit

When the Grinch tries to ruin Christmas for the Whos, he learns the true meaning of community. This timeless tale provides a fun way to discuss character transformation and the importance of working together.

A Charlie Brown Christmas By: Charles Schulz

Literary Elements: Dialogue, Problem/Solution

Themes to Explore: Friendship, Commercialism, Faith

Charlie Brown struggles to find the real meaning of Christmas in a world of commercialism. But by staying true to himself, Charlie finds joy in simplicity and encourages his friends. 

The Gingerbread Baby  By: Jan Brett

Literary Elements: Foreshadowing, Setting

Themes to Explore: Family, Problem-Solving, Adventure

When a gingerbread baby comes to life, he runs away from his creator, and a thrilling chase ensues. This tale uses a strong sense of place and foreshadowing to help readers predict outcomes, making it a great resource for discussing narrative structure.

The Night Before Christmas By: Clement C. Moore

Literary Elements: Rhyming, Repetition

Themes to Explore: Tradition, Anticipation, Holiday Magic

In this beloved holiday poem, a family eagerly anticipates the arrival of Santa Claus. The rhythmic repetition and playful language make it the perfect text for teaching rhyme and structure in poetry.

Grumpy Monkey Oh, No! Christmas By: Suzanne Lang

Literary Elements: Humor, Dialogue

Themes to Explore: Emotions, Acceptance, Holidays

Jim the chimpanzee struggles with his holiday mood so his friends help him find joy. This funny and relatable story is great for discussing emotions and how characters navigate feelings, especially during stressful times.

The Little Fir Tree By: Hans Christian Andersen 

Literary Elements: Personification, Setting

Themes to Explore: Selflessness, Change, Growth

A young fir tree dreams of becoming a Christmas tree but learns that true happiness comes from being selfless. This story teaches students the importance of contentment and generosity.

The 12 Days of Christmas any version

Literary Elements: Repetition, Patterns

Themes to Explore: Generosity, Fun, Family Traditions

In this retelling of the classic song, a series of gifts are given over twelve days. The repeating structure makes it an excellent choice for teaching patterns, sequencing, and how repetition enhances storytelling.

Have I missed any of your favorites? I’d love for you to share them with me over on my instagram @fifthintheforest!

     

 

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