Best of
Christmas

2005

Snowmen at Christmas


Caralyn Buehner - 2005
    . . but have you ever wondered what snowmen do for Christmas? Well, now's your chance to find out! The snowmen are back, and this time they're celebrating Christmas--the snowman way!This snappy and entertaining companion to the New York Times bestseller Snowmen at Night depicts all the best parts of the holiday, replete with icy treats and a snowman Kris Kringle. Told in the same bouncy verse as the original, Snowmen at Christmas is perfect for a snowy evening read-aloud.

Mortimer's Christmas Manger


Karma Wilson - 2005
    Where can he go?He sees a huge tree covered with twinkling lights. And next to the tree, a mouse-size house. And inside the house, a wee wooden manger just Mortimer's size. But statue people seem to already live there! One by one, Mortimer lugs and tugs the statues out of the house -- only to find them all put back in their places each evening! What is Mortimer to do?It's not until he overhears a very special story that Mortimer realizes whose house he is sharing and where Mortimer himself belongs. It is the story of Christmas and the ngiht the baby Jesus was born that warms Mortimer's heart in this magical holiday offering from award winners Karma Wilson and Jane Chapman.

Amazing Peace: A Christmas Poem


Maya Angelou - 2005
    “Angels and Mortals, Believers and Nonbelievers, look heavenward,” she writes, “and speak the word aloud. Peace.”Read by the poet at the lighting of the National Christmas Tree at the White House on December 1, 2005, Maya Angelou’s celebration of the “Glad Season” is a radiant affirmation of the goodness of life and a beautiful holiday gift for people of all faiths.

You Are My Miracle


Maryann Cusimano Love - 2005
    Presented in gentle rhymes and illustrations as warm and glowing as a winter's fire, here is one such Christmas. Maryann Cusimano Love and Satomi Ichikawa, the team behind the international bestseller You Are My I Love You, pair up once again to bring you this instant classic.

Can You See What I See? The Night Before Christmas: Picture Puzzles to Search and Solve


Walter Wick - 2005
    "Visions of Sugarplums" is an abstract composition of Christmas confections; and "Such a Clatter!" is a dynamic explosion of objects. In "It Must Be Saint Nick," Santa is shown in shadow; and in "A Bundle of Toys," the presents in Santa's sack are revealed as a magnificent jumble. The final photograph, "Happy Christmas to All" is a beautiful, pastoral landscape, lustrous under new-fallen snow. The original poem is printed on the endpapers. Can You See What

Santa Claus: The World's Number One Toy Expert


Marla Frazee - 2005
    No one in the whole world knows more about kids, toys, and gifts than Santa Claus. No one. (And of course, he loves his job.) But how does he do it?

Christmas Is Good!: Trixie Treats & Holiday Wisdom


Trixie Koontz - 2005
    It's the ultimate guide to Christmas cheer for pet lovers everywhere!

J Is for Jesus: The Sweetest Story Ever Told


Crystal Bowman - 2005
    This sweet story reminds little ones that the candy cane represents Jesus' birth and the gospel message too.

Seeker of Stars


Susan Fish - 2005
    When his life is radically changed, he is propelled onto a new path full of danger and glory in pursuit of a special star. The journey leads Melchior to reflect on life and death, dreams and duty, and to find unusual reconciliation within his family and with the God he never knew he sought. Destined to become a classic, Seeker of Stars offers a fresh retelling of the story of the magi, and will appeal to people of all ages and faiths.

Holding Heaven


Jerry B. Jenkins - 2005
    Jenkins and biblical artist Ron DiCianni transport you to the hardscrabble Middle East of the first century where you eavesdrop on interaction between a father and a son so profound that it will forever change how you view the Incarnation.

A Perfect Man is Hard to Find: Elusive Preferences


Peggy Poe Stern - 2005
    She had never realized how difficult it was to find a perfect man. She was beginning to think one had never been made and that was why just one was so difficult to find.    Maybe she would have to lower her standards after all, but that would be a terrible mistake considering her own background. Adding two imperfects together was not good odds on the outcome.   Chapter 13 ...... He kept Anna Jones to himself, a deep, dark secret wrapped in velvet cloth. One he couldn't talk about, never telling anyone she came to him in his dreams at night, and disappeared with the light of day. He wished she'd walk back onto his Christmas tree lot--or walk out of his mind for good. ...

The Candle in the Window


Margaret Hill McCarter - 2005
    Though it will take a miracle to survive the storm on that fateful Christmas Eve, he knows that Christmas miracles are all about special deliveries. Discover a very special Christmas story that opens the door for those seeking shelter from the pain of their past. Inspire your entire family with a beautiful portrayal of how a simple candle in the window can bring hope for the future and an encounter with the Light of the world.

Jingle Bells


Iza Trapani - 2005
    Told from the child's perspective, Blizzard contrasts the coziness of home with the wildness of nature, celebrating the beauty of both.Lyrical text and striking illustrations depict the child's gentle adventure.

Once There Was A Christmas Tree


Jerry Smath - 2005
    and Mrs. Bear find that their extra-big Christmas tree won't fit in their house, they cut off the top half and share it with Mr. Fox and his son saying, "We took our tree and made it two. One half for us, one half for you."The Foxes love their new tree, but then they remember Old Rabbit, who lives alone. So the Foxes give half of their tree to Old Rabbit. And in turn, Old Rabbit gives part of his tree to a mouse family.The cover of the book features a fabulous, tree-shaped gel pouch filled with sparkly, festive glitter and foil bells, stars, and more!

Sagebrush Christmas


Birdie L. Etchison - 2005
    Cal Rutledge, the cowboy who buried Abby and saved the baby's life, is drawn to the spirited Jess. She is turning the sleepy town upside down with talk of a Christmas program, a church, a school, and most important, a fight for custody of the baby. But does Jess have room in her ambitions for a simple cowboy? Is the Lord's plan for Cal and Jess to share a sagebrush Christmas, then part ways? Or could he have a life in store for them that surpasses all they thought the desert could provide? Fall in love with this inspiring love story and our entire collection of Christian romance novels from Heartsong Presents!

Snowmen at Christmas / Snowmen at Night


Caralyn Buehner - 2005
    2 Book Set: Snowmen at Christmas and Snowmen at Night

I've Seen Santa!


David Bedford - 2005
    Full color.

Christmas in New York: A Pop-Up Book


Chuck Fischer - 2005
    Its unique construction combines original art by Chuck Fischer with photography of famous New York City landmarks and past holiday celebrations. Each pop-up spread will include short histories, architectural legacies, anecdotes, and fun facts contained in mini-pop-ups, pullouts, removable booklets, and other extras. Destined to become a treasured keepsake, CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK has been a perennial bestseller for years to come.

Josie's Gift


Kathleen Long Bostrom - 2005
    It is the first holiday for this depression era family since the death of their father and husband. He had always taught this simple family that "Christmas is not about what we want. It's about what we have." But this Christmas, all Josie could think about is what she had lost.Trying to fill the emptiness, Josie begs her mother for a new blue sweater she has been admiring in the store window for weeks. She knows that they can't afford it, but she wants desperately to know joy again. But in the form of three visitors and a surprise sacrificial gift on Christmas morning, Josie finds the joy she is seeking in the true meaning of Christmas.

Socks for Christmas


Andy Andrews - 2005
    In the late 1960s, New York Times bestselling author Andy Andrews thought he was having a very good Christmas… until he got socks from his Aunt Ruth--unarguably a very lousy gift. How could he know that those lousy socks would change Christmas and him forever!Socks for Christmas is great for all ages and will give your family an instant Christmas tradition. This timeless holiday book:Teaches lessons on gratitude, giving, and understanding others during the seasonInspires hearts and brings families togetherStirs nostalgia, tradition, and joy in any heart at Christmas timeSocks for Christmas is a:Safe gift for a boss, co-worker, or employeeThoughtful gift for a family member or loved oneA great option for gift exchangesWhether you read it yourself or listen to Andy on the CD (included with your purchase), Socks for Christmas is a great way to kick off the season.

Jesus, Me, and My Christmas Tree


Crystal Bowman - 2005
    But what is the meaning of this holiday tradition? Crystal Bowman's simple, rhyming verses and Claudine Gevry's whimsical art make this oversized, die-cut, foil-stamped board book a treat for the eye. Little ones learn the symbolism of angel, bell, and other ornaments, as well as, lights, the star on the top of the tree, and the blessing of presents under it. Parents will love the reinforcement of the Jesus is the reason message

Another Night Before Christmas


Carol Ann Duffy - 2005
    Her hand held the paw of her favourite bear...In 1822 CLEMENT MOORE WROTE a poem about Christmas Eve for his children. 'The Night Before Christmas' soon became a treasured Christmas story. Now one of our best-loved poets has rewritten the poem for the twenty-first century. Full of warmth and wit, with sparkling illustrations, here is a magical book that will be read again and again on long winter nights.

Where Did They Hide My Presents? Silly Dilly Christmas Songs


Alan Katz - 2005
    With uproarious pictures by illustrator and cartoonist David Catrow, this holiday collection guarantees hours of silly dilly cheer for kids and families everywhere!

Patchwork Holiday


Wanda E. Brunstetter - 2005
    Brunstetter Everlasting song / DiAnn Mills Remnants of faith / Renee DeMarco Silver lining / Colleen L. ReeceOne Heirloom Quilt Comforts Four Couples in Search of True Love. "Twice Loved" by Wanda Brunstetter, "Everlasting Song" by DiAnn Mills, "Remnants of Faith" by Renee DeMarco, and "Silver Lining" by Colleen L. Reece. One beautiful hand-tied patchwork quilt is the common thread linking several hearts and lives from 1943 through present day. Can a patchwork quilt bring comfort and joy to four souls? Will these broken hearts be sewn back together during a Patchwork Holiday?

The Promise: A Christmas Tale


Ted Dekker - 2005
    It's beautiful. It's perfect proof of an eternal truth and light. . . . This is not the usual story. This is the tale of a mute boy who is born and abandoned in the shadows of life. He carries with him two things-his dead mother's shawl and her promise that someday he will find a king who will give him a voice. Like Reuben in The Promise, may you sing of Light, even when no one else can hear.

McDuff's Christmas


Rosemary Wells - 2005
    When a blizzard comes to town on Christmas Eve, Fred and Lucy are worried that Santa won't be able to make it, and, after everyone goes to bed, McDuff waits patiently for Santa to arrive, making a new friend in the process.

The Three Godfathers


Peter B. Kyne - 2005
    But here is the original 1913 novelette in all its warm humanity and humor. Three bank robbers on the run in the frontier American West happen upon a birthing mother who begs the men to watch over her baby as the delivery takes her life just as another is brought into the world. Naturally, they do, and find that their new charge brings them a new outlook on their wicked ways. American novelist PETER B. KYNE (1880-1957) was born in San Francisco, California. From early on it was clear that he had a gift for writing, and his time in the army during the Spanish-American War and World War I gave him plenty to write about. Kyne's novels include The Go-Getter (1921) and Cappy Ricks (1916).

Advent Storybook: 24 Stories to Share Before Christmas


Antonie Schneider - 2005
    To help the time pass more quickly, his mother tells him that every day when he opens a door on his Advent calendar she'll tell him a story about another little bear and his long, arduous journey to Bethlehem.The little bear, led by a glittering star, meets many others on his travels. His adventures, filled with acts of heroism and kindness and many small miracles, show him the path to the Christ Child. A beautiful book that teaches the true spirit of Christmas.  The classic text from Antonie Schneider is beautifully illustrated by the award-winning international artist, Maja Dusikova.

The Homeless Christmas Tree


Leslie M. Gordon - 2005
    He is to be the official Christmas tree for all of the homeless people in the city below!Year after year, colored balls and garland adorn the tree at Christmastime, but one year, the woman does not come. Will there be a Christmas for homeless?This story is based on actual events about a funny-looking mimosa tree that sits above a busy freeway in Fort Worth, Texas. A formerly homeless woman decorated the tree, year after year, so that the homeless would have a Christmas tree. When she died, neighbors took over the custom and now decorate it for Easter, Halloween, and other holidays as well. It can be seen on the north side of Interstate 30 near the Oakland exit.

The Best of Guideposts Christmas: A Collection of Christmas Stories from America's Favorite Magazine


Ideals Publications Inc. - 2005
    This title includes 50 stories of faith, hope, love and unexpected blessings.

One Splendid Tree


Marilyn Helmer - 2005
    Money is tight, and this year a Christmas tree is a luxury the family cannot afford. But Junior finds an abandoned plant in the hallway, and in his eyes, it holds the promise of Christmas magic. If he can only convince Hattie, maybe they can have a tree after all! Marilyn Helmer's tender story and Dianne Eastman's richly detailed photocollage art bring this Christmas past to vivid life. Includes instructions on how to make your own snowman decoration!

Rick Steves' European Christmas


Rick Steves - 2005
    With enchanting photos and more than a dozen recipes, this great gift book captures the spirit of the season perfectly.After producing a hundred travel shows, Rick Steves and his public television crew finally went to Europe for Christmas. And the cameras were rolling. As only they can, Rick and his gang brought home a vivid and authentic portrait of how Europeans celebrate the holiday. This book is the companion to that PBS special.The Christmas we know today is a rich and fascinating mix of traditions that came over on the boat — an ancient celebration with pre-Christian roots. From Yule logs to mistletoe, from singing shepherds to the split personalities of Santa, from traditional recipes to the top ten ways to celebrate in Paris, you'll learn something new — or old — about Christmas.

Mr. Finnegan's Giving Chest with CD


Dan Farr - 2005
    Finnegan (Dick Van Dyke) is no ordinary toymaker. His providential meeting with Maggie, a resentful girl who doesn't believe in the magic of Christmas, is the beginning of a series of miracles that will change her heart forever.

A Wing And A Prayer


Franklin Graham - 2005
    Since losing his parents in a raid, Raimundo's life in the lush, tropical village of Alto Riesgo has been filled with only danger and sadness. But one day an unexpected gift, from a boy who can relate, shares the life-changing message of Jesus' love. Through the help of an adoptive family and a gift from a faraway friend, the danger and sadness that filled Raimundo's life is replaced with safety and hope for the new life that awaits him. Based on the Franklin Graham film, Last Flight Out, this book is warmly illustrated with the true-to-life art of Kevin Burke.

Away in a Manger


Thomas Kinkade - 2005
    And now this traditional scene is brought to life with all the luminous charm ofthe Kinkade style. Join the Thomas Kinkade Studios in celebrating one of the most recognizable Christmas songs, illustrated here with breathtaking beauty and aglow in the Kinkade light. With a sense of reverence and awe, these paintings connect the true meaning of Christmas to today's holiday season. Away in a Manger is a book to treasure -- to read and enjoy with family and friends year after year.

What God Wants for Christmas [With Book]


Family life - 2005
    Create anticipation and surprise in your child's Christmas experience with seven gift boxes, 6 hand-painted figurines, and a surprise ending in box #7. A colorful pop-up manger and a beautifully illustrated story booklet are also included. You can use this hands-on Christmas activity as a one-time event or 7 days leading up to Christmas morning.

Quizmas: Christmas Trivia Family Fun


Gordon Pape - 2005
    Ever wonder why we kiss under the mistletoe? Are the lights on the Christmas tree just pretty decorations or do they symbolize something deeper? Answers to these questions and hundreds more can be found in this delightful and utterly unputdownable collection of fabulous Christmas trivia.

A Cardboard Christmas


Michele Ashman Bell - 2005
    Meyers is the meanest, crankiest old man in the whole town. Unfortunately, Jimmy Tremaine needs his help. Not so much for himself, but for Lizzie and Charlie. They are his responsibility white mom is at work---and it's getting cold inside the house.Now Jimmy must dig up enough courage to ask "Mr. Pruneface" for some help to get the furnace going. Jimmy already knows that his neighbor will be grouchy. What he doesn't know is that Mr. Meyers needs the Tremaine family's help as much as they need his.Renew your Christmas spirit the holiday season with this charming story.

Wenceslas


Geraldine McCaughrean - 2005
    . .  Beautifully illustrated by Christian Birmingham, this lavishly produced book tells of the age-old carol of Good King Wenceslas and his page, who set out on a bitter winter night to deliver the spirit of Christmas. The majestic images in rich, soft oil pastels are a perfect compliment to this much-loved story.

Three French Hens: A Holiday Tale


Margie Palatini - 2005
    . . . Colette, Poulette, and Fifi end up delivered not to Philippe Renard, but to Phil Fox from the Bronx. Phil can't believe his luck-he hasn't had a square meal in weeks, and here's a free lunch right on his doorstep! But his plans to dine on the delectable fowl are foiled as the French hens work their Christmas magic on him, proving that the spirit of the holidays can bring the most unlikely folks together.

One Voice: Pacifist Writings from the Second World War


Vera Brittain - 2005
    This new edition includes a preface by her daughter Shirley Williams.

Christmas Around The World


Anna Claybourne - 2005
    

Preparing My Heart for Advent


Ann Marie Stewart - 2005
    It accomplishes its purpose with a two-fold thrust, serving as both a seasonal Bible study and devotional. Each day of the November  studies corresponds to a December devotional reading on the same topic. For example, readers will study Joseph on November 10th only to refresh their learning on this topic with a devotional reading on December 10th.    Each week in the November Bible study portion offers refreshing thoughts for meditation and reflection. Spiritual significance is offered for common Christmas imagery, and the historical background of familiar carols is explained in detail. Suggestions are given for reaching out to others during the season of giving.    The December devotionals aim to keep readers in the Word of God during the busiest season of the year, celebrating and reflecting in a way that reinforces their studies in November.In the author's words, Preparing My Heart for Advent will encourage readers to "stop, look, listen, and experience Immanuel-God with Us-wherever we are. Put on a familiar carol, pour a cup of peppermint tea, and settle into a reflective look at a birth unlike any other!

What God Wants for Christmas: Read Along, Sing Along [With CD]


Amy Bradford - 2005
    Share the enchantment of What God Wants for Christmas with your children while making storytelling more fun than ever! Enjoy a beautifully illustrated book and a Read-Along audio CD, with word-

Disney The Little Big Book Of Christmas (Little Big Book) (Little Big Book)


Monique Peterson - 2005
    Curl up with wonderful holiday tales starring Winnie the Pooh and Mickey, share fun in the kitchen by whipping up some of Cinderella’s favorite sweets, get the whole gang smiling as you sing time-honored Christmas songs, and spend snowy days making gifts suggested by the Seven Dwarfs. Disney The Little Big Book of Christmas is filled with Disney-inspired stories, comics, activities, recipes, songs, and ideas to make the holidays special. Beautifully illustrated with over 200 images–familiar and rarely seen–from Disney’s archives, this is real a treasure for all Disney fans. This fun-filled book for the whole family includes:Stories and Comics: Christmas stories featuring Disney’s favorite old standbys (Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, Donald) as well as new such as Ariel’s Christmas Under the Sea, Andy’s Christmas Puppy, Pinocchio’s Perfect Gift, and Winnie the Pooh and Christmas Too. Also included are comic strips loaded with holiday fun!Activities: Make Seven Dwarfs Pinecone Carolers, Pooh’s Wishing Star, or Bambi’s Snow Globe. Decorate tree and home, send cards, wrap presents, make gifts . . . all with a Disney twist!Fun, Facts, and Trivia: Find out how Eeyore spreads Christmas cheer, what the Princesses wish for Christmas, and how the holidays are celebrated at Disney Theme Parks. Daisy gives decorating tips and Tinker Bell offers stocking-stuffer ideas.Recipes: Make holiday treats for enjoying and giving! Try Bambi’s Reindeer Lollipops, Cinderella’s Chocolate Mice, Captain Hook’s Hidden Treasure Cookies, and much more.Songs: Rarely seen art from the Disney Archives–Peter Pan and friends caroling, Lion King’s lions a-leaping–illustrate favorite traditional Christmas carols.The Joy of Giving: Learn how to spread the Christmas spirit with Disney characters setting an example: Toy Story characters support Toys for Tots; the puppies from 101 Dalmatians list their favorite animal charities; Aladdin wishes to feed the hungry.

Uncle John's Bathroom Reader Christmas Collection


Bathroom Readers' Institute - 2005
    Nick’s on the go: the new Uncle John's Bathroom Reader Christmas Collection. Stuffed like a Christmas goose, this book is packed with fun facts and merry myths about Santa himself, the tradition of Christmas stockings, the Red Nosed Reindeer’s original name (Rollo!), and where St. Nicholas’s fingers are on display (Antalya, Turkey). Those seeking relief from endless holiday festivities can revel in tales of rampaging Santas, the myth of “No assembly required,” Christmas disasters, and lutefisk. Articles include Why Do They Spell It X-mas?, Christmas World Records, Best Ways to Keep Your Christmas Politically Correct, Celebrity Christmas Present Wish List, and more.

The Gift


Anita Stansfield - 2005
    — The Gift is a modern LDS Christmas classic that will warm the hearts of all who read it, and help keep Christ as the vital part of this miraculous season.

I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas


John Rox - 2005
    But will Santa Claus and her parents make her Christmas wish come true?Based on the popular Christmas song by John Rox, this edition also includes the sheet music and lyrics to “I Want A Hippopotamus for Christmas.” With catchy refrains, classic artwork, and a heartwarming story, this timeless Christmas tale has been a favorite since 1953. Music and lyrics for the song included!* Through the Looking Glass Children’s Book Review

Sacred Songs of Christmas: A Family Treasury [With CD]


Nicole Wong - 2005
    

Canadian Christmas Traditions: Festive Recipes and Stories from Coast to Coast


Deeann Mandryk - 2005
    The origin of a Canadian Christmas is a fascinating blend of different traditions and festivities. The stories behind the celebration originate from around the world, and paint a wonderful picture of a season of joy, faith, superstition, and celebration stretching back over thousands of years.

A Tree for America


Edd Voss - 2005
    He finds himself being sent to the small town of Leavenworth, Washington, to supervise the shipment of the national Christmas tree. Here he meets Ken Rainey, the larger-than-life-seeming truck driver who is delivering the tree to the White House, and finds out that he must ride along in the truck with the tree. After insulting Ken while on the phone to D.C, he must now deal with the logistics of the trip. First Ken convinces Anjer that the clothes he has with him are inadequate for the trip. Anjer's education begins with a shopping trip to purchase clothes adequate for the journey. He is given a peek into the life of a long-haul driver, while meeting some wonderful people along the way. While dealing with the weather in Wyoming and helping a family escape the danger of an impending storm, he gets a view of America he never knew existed. The scenery opens up his eyes to just a glimpse of what America has to offer. Other adventures await the duo as they make their way to the delivery in D.C. This is not really a religious book but does give a view of Christmas as a time of giving and caring about our fellow man. It is also just a glimpse into the lives of the men and women who travel the open road to deliver all the goods we consume as a nation.