Sherlock Homeschooling, Cozy Christmas Unit Study. Family Literature and Activity Guide. Sherlock Homeschooling provides secular homeschool curriculum for free - enjoy this community supported Cozy Christmas Unit Study.
This is a free online version of the Cozy Christmas Unit Study. You can find a printable and downloadable PDF version on a give-what-you-can basis at this link.
What is this book about?
In Jan Brett’s enchanting retelling of The Nutcracker, Marie and her brother Fritz receive a magical nutcracker from their uncle, sparking an adventure that carries Marie into a world of wonder. She joins the Nutcracker on a journey that starts with a thrilling battle against mice and leads to the beautiful land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Set against a snowy Russian backdrop, Brett’s intricate illustrations add warmth and charm, making this Christmas classic a delightful tradition for families to enjoy together.
What is this book about?
In Cranberry Christmas, Old Cyrus Grape claims the skating pond as "his" and bans all the children from using it—even on Christmas! Mr. Whiskers knows this isn’t right, but without proof, there's nothing he can do. With some holiday spirit and a bit of tidying up at Mr. Whiskers' house, Maggie and her friends might just discover the key to saving Christmas skating. Plus, the book includes Maggie’s favorite cranberry cookie recipe for families to enjoy together!
What is this book about?
In The Elves and the Shoemaker, a poor shoemaker discovers that mysterious little elves are secretly helping him craft beautiful shoes each night, turning his fortune around. This classic tale of kindness and gratitude is brought to life with Jim LaMarche’s enchanting illustrations, adding warmth and magic to a story cherished by generations.
What is this book about?
A World of Cookies for Santa is a delightful journey around the world, sharing the unique cookies and treats that children leave out for Santa on Christmas Eve. From the Philippines' puto seko cookies with ginger tea to Russia's honey-spice treats and Malawi's sweet potato cookies, each stop introduces a new tradition. The book also includes recipes, inviting kids to try baking some of Santa’s treats themselves. This multicultural celebration is sure to become a yearly favorite for families who love exploring holiday traditions from different cultures.
What is this book about?
The Night Before Christmas is a beloved Christmas classic that has brought the magic of Santa Claus to life for generations. The story begins with the famous lines: "‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse." Whether continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, this timeless tale is sure to bring warmth and joy to families as they gather together to prepare for Christmas Eve.
What is this book about?
The Twelve Days of Christmas, illustrated by Jan Brett, brings the classic holiday song to life with stunning, detailed artwork. This beautifully illustrated book captures the festive spirit of the song, with all its gifts and joyful scenes, including maids a-milking, lords a-leaping, and a partridge in a pear tree. Beyond the gifts, readers will discover a heartwarming love story, a busy family preparing for Christmas, and "Merry Christmas" in eleven languages. Brett’s intricate illustrations, filled with traditional folk motifs, make this a delightful book to enjoy year after year.
What is this book about?
Christmas in the Big Woods is a charming introduction to the beloved Little House series, perfect for younger readers. Set in the Wisconsin woods, Laura and her family joyfully prepare for Christmas. When Laura’s cousins, aunt, and uncle arrive, they celebrate together with sweet treats, snow play, and reading. The simple pleasures of the holiday bring the Ingalls family closer. Renée Graef’s warm, full-color illustrations, inspired by Garth Williams’ classic artwork, beautifully capture the spirit of the season and bring this heartwarming story to life.
What is this book about?
The Polar Express is a magical Christmas classic that takes readers on a thrilling journey to the North Pole. On Christmas Eve, a young boy is invited aboard a mysterious train bound for the pole, traveling through dark forests, towering mountains, and icy deserts. At the North Pole, the boy has the chance to make his Christmas wish. A Caldecott Medal winner, The Polar Express has become a cherished holiday tradition for families, inspiring both a beloved movie and stage productions.
What is this book about?
Apple Tree Christmas is a heartwarming tale of love, loss, and healing. Katrina treasures the old apple tree near her home, where she loves to sit and draw, using the tree as her special studio. But after an ice storm splits the tree down the middle, Katrina is heartbroken when her father begins chopping it up for firewood. She can’t imagine celebrating Christmas without the tree, and she feels resentful and angry. As the holiday approaches, will anything restore her spirit? Inspired by the author’s own childhood, this tender story celebrates the bond between a father and daughter and the gift of love that heals even the deepest hurts.
What is this book about?
In Gingerbread Baby by Jan Brett, a mischievous gingerbread baby jumps out of the oven and sets off on a fun-filled chase through the village, teasing everyone who tries to catch him. Matti, the boy who baked him, isn’t part of the chase—he’s at home, creating a gingerbread house. As the gingerbread baby leads a colorful group of pursuers through the village and forest, he finally finds safety inside Matti’s gingerbread house. The story ends with a delightful surprise under a lift-the-flap to reveal the gingerbread baby hiding inside. This playful twist on a classic tale is perfect for Christmas-time fun.
What is this book about?
Pick a Pine Tree is a joyful read-aloud that captures the excitement and warmth of the holiday season. The story follows a family as they embark on the beloved tradition of selecting the perfect Christmas tree. From hanging stockings and decorating the house to bringing home the tree, this book celebrates all the special moments that make Christmas so magical. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, it reminds readers of the joy in the little traditions that bring families together during the holiday season.
