Have you ever imagined what it might be like if you could only tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth? No? Well spare a thought for the Truth Pixie who can only do just that. One of the fantastic characters from the ‘A Boy Called Christmas’ trilogy by Maths Haig, the Truth Pixie now has a book of her very own.

This charming tale is written in verse and targeted at readers aged five and up.  It tells the sad story of The Truth Pixie.  Cursed by her Great Aunt Julia to always tell the truth, whatever the consequences. Just imagine!  Eventually, even her family got fed-up of her bluntness and decided enough was enough.  They left The Truth Pixie all alone in her little yellow house with no one for company except Maarta, the mouse.

The Truth Pixie lives in fear of being asked questions and spends her time trying to look unfriendly so no one will talk to her.  But she’s so very lonely.  Surely there must be someone out there who could handle the truth and be her friend?

This story is (of course) about telling the truth, even if it’s difficult. But more than that, it’s about accepting who you are and learning to love yourself.  Although written for children, this wonderful tale contains plenty of sage advice for adults too and is ultimately very uplifting.

“Don’t forget who you are. You are a fighter.

As the dark in the sky makes the stars shine brighter,

You will find that the bad stuff has good bits too.

The bad days are the days that make you you.”

Told with heart and warmth by genius writer, Matt Haig, and illustrated in Chris Mould’s inimitable style, this would make a great Christmas gift or be perfect to used in school.

The Canongate team  have produced some excellent educational resources (based on the whole series) to be used  in the classroom both at KS1 and KS2.  There are: reading comprehension extracts, author and illustrator bios, prediction tasks, opportunities to learn about some of the Victorian figures, tips on dramatic readings and a guide to making your own Barometer of Hope.

Phew! Plenty of carefully thought out tasks to add real meaning and purpose to your planning in the hectic weeks preceding Christmas.  I shall definitely be trying some out in my book club sessions. If you choose to use them too, please share your outcomes on Twitter using #BelieveInTheImpossible They can be downloaded HERE.

Don’t forget about the original trilogy of ‘A Boy Called Christmas’ stories which are aimed for readers aged 7+ Each one’s an absolute outstanding and original adventure packed full of laughs but also plenty of more thoughtful moments too.  They will definitely help you summon up the Christmas spirit (and no, it’s not too early to mention Christmas!)

Review guaranteed to be 100% fib free!

Library Girl.

*Many thanks to Canongate for sending me these books and resources to review, and to Jenny at Shapes For Schools.*