As most of my readers know, I care for my grandsons while their parents work. We do many things together but one of the most rewarding is a time together that we've dubbed "Snuggle Up and Read."
All during the year, the boys and I share this activity but it is never more rewarding than at Christmas. Just recently we visited the library to check out some books on Christmas. When we read the books the boys were delighted and I decided to share my knowledge of these fantastic books with my readers.
THE LITTLE CROOKED CHRISTMAS TREE
Brown's Christmas Tree Farm is full of spruce trees. They all look the same, but one tree is different than the rest. He knows he is a tree but isn't sure what kind of tree he is. He has heard talk of Christmas and Christmas trees but doesn't understand what these things are. All he knows is that he is supposed to grow up straight and healthy.
Over the years, the little Christmas tree asks a goose and a squirrel if they know what the meaning of Christmas or a Christmas tree is. They don't. But one day a dove lands in the little tree's branches. She knows exactly what Christmas is but she is in trouble and needs a friend to help her.
Through his special friendship with the dove, the wonderful little tree learns the meaning of love, sacrifice and the true meaning of Christmas.
written by Michael Cutting and Ron Broda
Published by North Winds Press - a Division of Scholastic Canada
OSBN: 0590736523
For all ages.
Author's Note: The first time I read this book to the boys on December 5, 2001, they were both ecstatic. It is their favorite Christmas book this year. A fantastic read! (Grandma loved it too!!!)
THE CHRISTMAS MOUSE
Ben doesn't care for Christmas! He is a mean-spirited mouse and when his friend, Tim, offers him a Christmas gift, Ben refuses, hurting Tim's feelings.
On Christmas Eve, Ben is unable to sleep. A strange mouse appears at his window. This stranger promises to help Ben if he will take a challenge. Ben agrees.
Ben and the stranger set off down the alley on a night-time excursion. Before morning, Ben has learned the value of friendship and the true meaning of Christmas.
written by Toby Forward and Ruth Brown
Published by Anderson Press
ISBN: 0862646286
Ages 4 to 7
Author's Note: Both author and illustrator have done a great job of bringing Dicken's classic story to life for younger readers.
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