Skip to main content

Sign up for our monthly newsletter for updates on free videos, reading instruction strategies, and more!

Secondary navigation

About
Blogs
Resources
Videos
Newsletters

Search

Donate(opens in a new window)

Main navigation

Reading 101
Reading 101
Explore reading basics as well as the key role of background knowledge and motivation in becoming a lifelong reader and learner. Watch our PBS Launching Young Readers series and try our self-paced Reading 101 course to deepen your understanding.
Visit the Reading 101 Overview
In the Classroom
In the Classroom
Browse our library of evidence-based teaching strategies, learn more about using classroom texts, find out what whole-child literacy instruction looks like, and dive deeper into comprehension, content area literacy, writing, and social-emotional learning.
Visit the In the Classroom Overview
Helping All Readers
Helping All Readers
Many children need extra support to become skilled readers. Learn more about why some kids struggle, what effective interventions look like, how to create inclusive classrooms so every child can thrive, and much more.
Visit the Helping All Readers Overview
Books & Authors
Books & Authors
Meet your favorite book creators, launch an author study, browse our themed booklists, get tips on how to choose and use kids’ books, find guidance on building a more diverse bookshelf, celebrate annual literacy events with us, and more!
Visit the Books & Authors Overview
Literacy at Home
Literacy at Home
Discover how to support your child’s growth as a young reader and writer — with our Reading 101 for Families guide, bilingual parent tips, ideas for building your child’s knowledge of the world, Q&A with experts, and guidance on connecting with your child’s school.
Visit the Literacy at Home Overview
Topics

Profile

John Thompson

Children's Illustrator

Breadcrumb

Home
John Thompson

Books by this illustrator

Christmas in the Big House; Christmas in the Quarters

Preparations for Christmas on a Virginia plantation in 1859 begin with the harvest. There are differences between the celebrations in the big house of the plantation owners and those in the slave quarters. This fictionalized account blends the drama and history for a dramatic portrait of the period.

Book Details

Christmas in the Big House; Christmas in the Quarters

Fredrick McKissack, Patricia McKissack

Illustrator:

John Thompson

Age Level:

6-9

Liked it? Share it!

Reading Rockets is made possible with generous support from the National Education Association.

Top

Reading Rockets is a national public media literacy initiative offering free, research-based information and resources on how young kids learn to read, why so many struggle, and how caring adults can help.

Helpful Links

Glossary
News Headlines

Visit Our Sites

AdLit(opens in a new window)
Colorín Colorado(opens in a new window)
LD OnLine(opens in a new window)
Reading Universe(opens in a new window)
Start with a Book(opens in a new window)

Sign Up for Our Newsletter

Email Address *

Newsletter

Weekly News Blast

Copyright © 2026 WETA Washington, D.C.

Footer Bottom Menu

Privacy Policy

Social Media Links

Facebook
Pinterest
YouTube