These next three are not necessarily less favorite than the last three, as a matter of fact, I think the last book mentioned here today may be one of my very favoritest Christmas stories ever. (Yes, I know that isn't a real word.)
First, "Saint Nicholas: The Real Story of the Christmas Legend" by Julie Stiegemeyer. I really like this book because it explains who the real St. Nicholas was and how he tried to exemplify the Savior in his life. His generousity and giving heart are what made him the basis for our current Santa tradition. Although I must admit that I get very tired of the commercialization of Christmas, I love the giving spirit of Santa and what he really stands for. When I read this book, I think more of 'St. Nicholas' and of the spirit behind the season.
"Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree" by Robert Barry is just a sweet story about a Christmas tree being shared all around the village. Too tall for Mr. Willowby, he cuts the top off. What happens to that top as it makes it rounds through the forest full of friendly creatures? You will have to read to find out. Fun favorite for very young children.
I can not tell you how great the next book is without you seeing it for yourself, but I will try. The problem is, I have a very old edition that I'm not sure you can get now, but I am going to buy the new edition because I understand that it has letters that were previously omitted. But, I am getting ahead of myself.
JRR Tolkien, the great master storyteller of Middle Earth, was a genius. During the month of December, his children would receive a letter with a North Pole postmark. The letters were from Father Christmas. They told tales of life at the North Pole all through the year: mischevious reindeer, his friend the North Polar Bear, and troublesome goblins who live beneath his house. The stories are magical and entertaining. I can read two or three a night to my children, or more.
My edition has original artwork (by Tolkien himself) and envelopes pasted on each page filled with pull-out letters. They are copies of the original letters and are written in Tolkien's hand. The backs have the type-written translation. It is so cool! Mostly, the stories are just funny and we love to hear all about Father Christmas's adventures at the North Pole.
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| Letters From Father Christmas by J.R.R. Tolkien |
I have to add one comment. While growing up and taking piano lessons, I always had to play "Good King Wenceslas" because the melody is very simple and has a small range. I hated the song, after all no one ever sings it and no little child has ever heard of it. Then, as an adult my own children went through the same scenarion and I didn't like the song any better. Then, quite a few years ago, someone introduced me to the story of good King Wenceslas. It is a wonderful story. He truly was a good king. The song mean so much more to me now. There are many picture books based on the tale of good King Wenceslas. I'm sure any of them would tell the story well. I recommend everyone become familar with it.
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