The Wonders of the First Christmas: Explore the Birth of Jesus through History, Archaeology, & Art by Andy McGuire (Zonderkidz)

 

ISBN: 9780310170211
Hardcover | $18.99
ZonderKidz
Purchase Here - Amazon

My thoughts:  Small children live in the moment. Their ability to comprehend or independently visualize history or how people lived differently from their own way of living has to be gently and gradually taught. They "see" dinosaurs as frightful animals that should growl, prowl, and devour. But in actuality they see a simply an  animal not much different from animals in their own time-line than that of the neighbor's dog that barks, growls, runs, and jumps. They are "in the now" mentally and physically.

Therefore, instilling a comprehension of the Christ Child being born in a barn, placed in a manger, and being pursued by an evil king or other archeological, governmental, and societal life different from that in which he, himself, actual lives, is nil. So a book such as The Wonders of the First Christmas: Explore the Birth of Jesus through History, Archaeology and Art that tells the Bibilical account of the birth of Jesus in storybook form is typical. The inclusion of history lesson tidbits running parallel on the book's pages provides opportunity for parents to introduce elements of history and life during those ancient times to the young child. A wonderful concept and a helpful tool for parents to have at hand.

Beautifully told, the story of the birth of the Son of God adheres well to Scripture account. The illustrations are large, beautifully colored, and clearly drawn to visually articulate each scene. Detail and softness are both achieved in the art. The struggle of Joseph and the donkey on the journey are easy to comprehend. A snippet of Roman history. A snippet of the usefulness of donkeys during that period of history. Snippets about the life of the shepherds in the fields and the type of sheep they tended. The illustrations really capture the birth of Christ, the surroundings, the way of life, and His early journey to the safety of Egypt.

I highly recommend this unusual "Christmas story" book for its beauty, unusual information about the times, and its accurate retelling of the birth of the Christ Child.

About the book: Experience the Christmas story and witness the goodness of God. Through historical details and Biblical truths, The Wonders of the First Christmas is an inspirational and educational picture book that tells the story of Jesus’s birth from a new perspective, helping families deepen their understanding of God and his word.

The Christmas story is so familiar that we often take the details for granted. But did Mary and Joseph really ride on a donkey to Bethlehem? What was a manger and why did they use one for Jesus’s bed? And where were the wise men actually from? By approaching the story with historical insight and a child’s sense of wonder, Andy McGuire crafts a tale that feels fresh and insightful, using well-researched material and beautiful original artwork.

The Wonders of the First Christmas:

• Combines the gospel text of the nativity story with historical, biological, and geographic facts about ancient Israel and the life and times of Jesus.
• Gives children a solid foundation for their faith with beautiful art and additional content.
• Is the perfect Advent or Christmas book to share with children ages 4 and up
• Includes an easy-to-read main story as well as callouts with easy-to-understand facts
• Emphasizes God’s love for his children and his plan for our salvation.

Where you can buy a copy🎄 Click Here

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and freely given. #Christmas #Nativity #FirstChristmas #ChildrensBook #Bethlehem #ChristmasBook #christmastime #christmaspresents #ad

The First Christmas: The Bible’s Nativity Story (God’s Big Picture Bible Stories) by N. T. Wright & Helena Perez Garcia, Illustrator [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9781400253234
Hardcover  $17.99
Tommy Nelson Publishing

My thoughts:  A gorgeous book in large, over-sized format yet light weight for young hands, the narrative of author N.T. Wright's re-telling of the Biblical account of the birth of Jesus, the Christ child, is beautifully accurate and gentle in the telling. The cover art immediately captures one's attention with the darkness of night, glow of light, and reverence of characters as the Son of God is laid in a manger.

Recounting for young minds the advent of our Saviour from the angel's declaration to Mary and culminating in the journey from the safety of Egypt to their home in Galilee. The text flows gently yet with intentional accuracy. There are no added-in myths, barn-yard creatures, drummer-boys, etc. that is encountered in many of modern nativity books.

As is true of the entirety of the Bible, woven throughout and foremost in the narrative is Jesus. And just as it is told as a story, the last of the book gives the reader (and parents) a glimpse into the promises of God to send a redeemer.

A couple of pages at the end of the book tell of Old Testament promises, with lovely images, that bring together the story of the Christ child being foretold. A wonderful opportunity to teach cohesiveness of the Bible and the prophecies fulfilled.

This is a beautiful recounting that will be treasured.  

About the book: Keep Jesus in the center of your family’s Christmas and Advent celebrations with this beautiful nativity storybook from N.T. Wright, one of the world’s most loved and trusted Bible scholars.

With the big-picture approach that readers worldwide have learned to trust, N.T. Wright weaves together the biblical accounts of Jesus’ birth into a thoughtful, hope-filled telling of the first Christmas, from Gabriel’s announcement to the family’s return from Egypt.

The First Christmas features:

• a faithful telling of the nativity story;
• gorgeous painted art from award-winning illustrator Helena Perez Garcia;
• a resource page showing how Old Testament prophecies were fulfilled in baby Jesus’ coming; and
• a deluxe book with a presentation page.

A beautiful keepsake gift for children and adults alike, The First Christmas celebrates Christ’s birth with authenticity, beauty, and joy.

🎄GIVEAWAY🎄

Begins October 28

Ends November 25 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

The First Christmas: The Bible’s Nativity Story--God’s Big Picture Bible Stories

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Tommy Nelson Publishing to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize book is provided by and mailed directly to the winner by publisher or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. Giveaway is open to USA addresses only.

Merry Christmas, My Darling Dear: Celebrating the Gift of Jesus (Darling Animals in Bloom) [Review & Giveaway]

 

My thoughts:  Sweetness overload! Charm abounding! Cuddle time assured! That's what the "My Darling Dear" books from Amy Kavelaris bring to adults and little ones. Guaranteed! Well, at least I think they do.

Doe-eyed beauties and gentle love populate the pages of these books and will surely bring many requests for a re-read. Perfect for addition to homes with young children and gift giving by aunties, grandmommies, and all who love young children.

In Merry Christmas, My Darling Dear: Celebrating the Gift of Jesus, the author's gentle rhymes embrace the joys of the season, the gift giving and decorations, and  shared love of the Christmas holiday season. She then gently transitions into the real meaning and purpose of celebrating Christmas. She addresses with artistry and word smithing beauty the coming of the small baby that was the Son of God, the Christ, the Saviour.

 

I highly recommend this lovely book.

About the book: Step into a winter wonderland filled with beautiful artwork of woodland animals and flower crowns as you celebrate the true meaning of Christmas with your little ones. Merry Christmas, My Darling Dear follows a baby and mama deer who discover that Christmas festivities, decorations, and presents are reminders of the greatest gift of all—the birth of God’s Son.

When you string lights on your tree, remember Jesus, the Light of the World. And when you watch snow falling gently down, remember God sent His Son down to earth to be with us. Let each gift you give be a reminder of the greatest gift, the gift of our Savior. This baby and mama deer delight over each Christmasy moment as they wander through the snowy forest, enjoy Christmas activities, and encounter a beautiful church and its nativity scene.
Filled with whimsical illustrations from beloved author and artist Amy Kavelaris, this picture book

• For ages 4 to 8;
• Shows the value in Christmas festivities and how they point to the true reason for Christmas, the celebration of Jesus’ birth; and
• Great gift for Christmas and Advent as well as baby showers during the Christmas season.
• See the wonder of the Christmas season through your child’s eyes as you teach them that each moment is a celebration of God’s Son.

Check out my reviews of other books from Amy Kavelaris:

• Good Night, My Darling Dear
• Good Morning, Little One

🎄GIVEAWAY🎄

Begins October 25

Ends November 23 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

Merry Christmas, My Darling Dear: Celebrating the Gift of Jesus (Open USA only)

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize book is provided by and mailed directly to the winner by publisher or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Our Christmas Tree Farm by Lisa J. Amstutz & Christina Forshay, Illustrator (Feeding Minds Press0 [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts:  This is truly a delightful story and so much educational information, too. I love how this family planted a seedling of a evergreen tree (i.e. Christmas tree type tree) when the little girl who is now seven was just a baby. She has watched and tended the little tree through the years. This year the plan is for her to cut it down and decorate it as her own tree.

Activity on the tree farm goes on all year long as they plant, tend, harvest, and then sell the trees. When it's time to open the farm for customers to select their own trees, it all comes alive with joy and treats.

Back information is truly informative. I found it especially interesting that rootings can be made from cuttings from trees and then planted to grow to full size.

A terrific book for libraries everywhere. A treat book for families that engage in the thrill that comes from going to a tree farm, selecting your own tree, helping cut it down, and having treats while there.

About the book: Customers have arrived at the Christmas tree farm, and Kate's whole family comes together to help―even Daisy the dog! Popping corn, setting up sleds, and baling trees keep the family busy while they maintain a watchful eye on one truly special tree.

Throughout the years, Papa has trimmed the trees, Mom has mowed the paths, and one extra special tree was planted for Kate. She and her tree are both seven years old and―finally!― the tree has grown tall enough to be brought inside and decorated for Christmas. Little brother Henry loves the tree so much that the family decides to graft a piece of it so they can grow Henry his very own Christmas tree, too.

With its vibrant illustrations, lyrical writing, and fun facts about a tree farm, OUR CHRISTMAS TREE FARM promises to become a new holiday tradition to enjoy for years to come.

This holiday picture book features information on how trees are grown and cared for on a farm. Extensive backmatter includes facts about Christmas trees and tree farms, how to graft a new tree from a twig, and the eco-friendly way to recycle a Christmas tree.

Author: Lisa Amstutz is the author of more than 150 books for kids. As a child, she enjoyed helping with her family's Christmas tree patch and other small farming ventures. Today she writes about nature, sustainability, and agriculture from a small farm of her own. To learn more, see www.LisaAmstutz.com.

Illustrator: Christina Forshay was born and raised in sunny Southern California. During the holidays, she loves sipping on hot cocoa, snuggling with her kids and kitties, watching classic movies, and, of course, decorating her Christmas tree! When she’s not illustrating, you can find Christina having adventures on a golf course, on a soccer field, at the beach, at a museum, or at a concert! Find more of her work at www.christinaforshay.com.

🎄GIVEAWAY🎄

Begins October 24

Ends November 21 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only

Our Christmas Tree Farm by Lisa J. Amstutz (Open USA only)

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided by and mailed directly to the winner by publicist or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. Feeding Minds Press/Our Christmas Tree

A top deal for TopCashBack

Did  you KNOW that you can earn cash back on memberships as well as grocery purchases, drug store purchases (not prescriptions), clothes, and so much more????

I just renewed my AARP membership and earned $10 for a 1-year renewal. You can earn up to $25. click here for my referral link, please. Join. Start earning your cash back.

When it's time to "cash out" my account, I like to get gift cards. Example: A Target gift card gives me 3% more back than the actual cash back amount. I also love it when I get an email showing a special deal that TopCashBack offers like the $2.50 on any purchase. That is on top of the percentage the store and TopCashBack are offering. Another win-win!

Here's a screenshot of my most recent shopping trips and earnings. My AARP deal isn't showing yet but will be soon. 

You can choose to transfer your "cash back" earnings to your bank account, too.

It is a totally win-win opportunity to stretch your money. Again, my referral link.

Dark Design (The Erin Delaney Mysteries #2) by Nancy Mehl [Book Spotlight & Giveaway]

A Christian Romantic Suspense Novel with Mystery and FBI Action

As she began to lose consciousness, she realized that she'd just made a very serious mistake. . . .

She tried to call out for help, but she couldn't see anyone on the shore.

There was no one to save her.

When Erin Delaney learns that a serial killer has mimicked the murder portrayed in her bestselling novel, she joins her friend Kaely Quinn-Hunter, a former FBI profiler, in Virginia. Their reunion, only a few months after fending off an eerie killer in the woods of Tennessee, is bittersweet, as Kaely has been tasked by the FBI to recruit Erin's help to identify a suspect. The FBI's team is stumped by the murderer who re-creates killings from the books of multiple authors, with only ominous notes left behind. As Erin is drawn further into the web of fear and chaos, Kaely begins to fear for Erin's safety.

On top of tracking down a murderer, Erin must shoulder the weight of a haunted past and claims that she stole the plot of her novel from one of her sources. As she struggles on multiple fronts, the enemy looms closer than ever--and Erin's life hangs in the balance.

My review: Books by Nancy Mehl  are written with well thought out mystery and suspense, and the good guys are always evaluating and examining details to find out who the culprit is. In Dark Design we have a murderous individual that seems to be setting the stage for murder based on suspense writers' acclaimed books. I found this an interesting twist given that Ms. Mehl is an acclaimed suspense author herself. I found myself picturing Nancy with her curly white hair filling the shoes of Erin and experiencing the fear and uncertainty but also mentally trying to figure it all out.

I can hardly avoid speaking of my delight with the foodie addiction Erin has - she loves mallowbar cookies. Well, who doesn't? I've personally had to refrain from eating an entire package myself. Pure delectable marshmallow sitting atop a cookie and all drenched with melt-in-your mouth chocolate. What's not to love!

As the mystery begins to untangle with the law enforcers sifting through the information, danger seems to continue to be their companion. Fear for safety. Fear of emotional upheaval and phobias. Uncertainty. Erin is in the midst of it all. Her close friend, Kaley, provides a refuge by opening the door of her home to Erin, and Kaley also opens the door to an understanding and faith in God. There is a strong element of Christian faith and belief woven throughout the book.

I look forward to the concluding book in the Erin Delaney Mystery Series - Fatal Finale summer 2026.

Read an excerpt - click here

Purchase your copy - click here

Read my review of Shattered Sanctuary (Erin Delaney Mysteries #1) - click here 

GIVEAWAY

Begins October 21

Ends November 20 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

Dark Design (The Erin Delaney Mysteries #2) by Nancy Mehl

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided and mailed directly to the winner by author, publicist, or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. Selection of winner is random selection by Gleam system from qualified entries.

Holiday seasons give lots of opportunities to "Gather Grateful" [book review]

ISBN: 9781536233384
Candlewick Press
Hardcover $18.99

My thoughts:  As days grow cooler and leaves turn colorful and begin to cascade from their perch on branches, all sorts of things happen as preparation for the coming cold and appreciation for the days of warmth and abundance cease. They happen everywhere......