My thoughts: When we think of Christmas our thoughts go to the reason for observing the day or the season - that is, the birth of our Saviour, the Christ Child. We don't stop to think about what was going on in the natural world, other than the flocks of sheep on the hillside and possibly the animals housed in the inn's manger. All of nature may have played a role in rejoicing that The Christ Child was born. But the Bible does not tells us anything about this. It is silent. Even so, through the years there have been stories, legends, or fables about the animals of Christmas. In this sweet book, The Birds of Christmas, there are birds that sweep and flit, chirp and flutter, and bring their gift to the babe in the manger.
It is a sweet story. It is a fable. The text flows easily and makes for a delightful read aloud time. There is a bit of alliteration which is always a joy to encounter in read aloud stories. The illustrations are sweet and delightful and beautifully executed with rich yet soft coloration.
I like that the birds each bring a gift to the Christ Child, and that we get to enjoy a fable of how the Robin got it's beautifully red colored breast. This is a book you may want to add to your child's collection of Christmas stories or for gifting to someone. Or you may be more of a traditionalist and prefer to not mix fables with Biblical events.
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| ISBN: 9780802856470 Eerdmans Books for Young Readers Hardcover $18.99 |
“Wake up, wake up, birds!” croaks Raven one December night. “A child is born!” Each bird longs to bring a gift to the newborn baby in the manger. Nightingale sings a sweet song; Rooster caws a special call; Stork plucks her feathers to make a pillow. “I have nothing to give,” thinks little Robin. But as the night grows colder, the fire keeping the stable warm burns lower and lower. Maybe even a tiny bird has her own way to show her love for the newborn Prince of Peace…
Illustrated in lush blues and golds, The Birds of Christmas invites children to join the flock gathering around the manger. This beautiful book is an unforgettable reminder of the wonder of Christmas and the priceless gift of compassion.
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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Eerdmans Young Readers Books to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize book is provided and mailed directly to the winner by the publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.
I visit with my family and I love to read Christmas books.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a beautiful book to add to our Christmas reading
ReplyDeleteMy children and nieces and nephews love holiday books. I always purchased books for them. I love spending Christmas relaxing with family.
ReplyDeleteMaryann D.
We usually have a dinner and games. We only give a few gifts, as to keep the reason for the season the main theme.
ReplyDeleteI celebrate with friends & family. This is a lovely book.
ReplyDeleteWe like to read Night Before Christmas every year together. Years ago Christmas celebration was huge, with tons of family and friends. This was when I was a child over 30 years ago. Now it is not the same, still special but not massive. Usually just my husband, son and I. We might visit a brother or my mom but the main focus is just us having a nice day celebrating together at home.
ReplyDeleteWe celebrate as a family. We have art books about Christmas.
ReplyDeleteI am loving your "Christmas celebration" comments. Yes, what we do changes through the years, but each brings a delight and a new memory to treasure.
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