Book picks similar to
Jacob's Gift by Max Lucado


christmas
picture-books
christian
children

Why Christmas Trees Aren't Perfect


Richard H. Schneider - 1988
    Small Pine hoped to maintain its perfect form and be selected by the Queen as her Christmas tree. But as the warm-hearted little tree gave shelter to birds, rabbits, and deer in the forest, its branches became damaged. Fortunately, the Queen had a different idea of perfection...Young readers will want to read and reread the story of how Small Pine's love and charity for its friends helps make it the most "perfect" Christmas Tree of all.This magnificently illustrated story of a warm-hearted Christmas tree will surely become one of the most beloved classics of future generations. Schneider's storytelling will enthrall children and adults alike.

The Jesse Tree


Geraldine McCaughrean - 2003
    "I'm carving a Jesse tree, if you must know. Now run along out of here. A church isn t for playing in." "Is that your name, then? Jesse?" The carpenter was impatient to get back to work. "Of course not. A Jesse tree is a very ancient tradition. A thousand years ago, every church had a Jesse tree. A stained-glass window or a carved wooden screen . . . Nowadays, it 's a lost art."As Mr. Butterfield carves a Jesse Tree in an old dusty church, a curious young boy distracts him, asking about the various symbols on the tree. Against his better judgment, the old man finds himself retelling the familiar Biblical tales that trace the lineage of Christ, from the Garden of Eden to Jesus birth. Under the carpenter 's skilled hands, the Jesse tree grows and an unlikely friendship begins to take root as well.Geraldine McCaughrean's fresh retellings of familiar Bible events and Bee Willey 's whimsical and striking illustrations create a rich and contemporary tale, perfect for reading during Advent or anytime.The Jesse Tree will captivate readers who know and love the Bible stories as well as those who are reading them for the first time.

Christmas Tapestry


Patricia Polacco - 2002
    But then he and his father find a beautiful tapestry for sale in a secondhand shop. Just the thing to cover the damaged wall and give the church a festive look! But then, amazingly, an old Jewish woman who is visiting the church recognizes the beautiful cloth. It is her discovery that leads to a real miracle on Christmas Eve. This timely tale of love and generosity between people of different religious faiths is a wonderful showcase for Polacco's art. It features snowy holiday scenes and a colorful tapestry that is almost a character in itself.

God Gave Us Christmas


Lisa Tawn Bergren - 2006
     "Who invented Christmas?" Mama's answer only leads to more questions like "Is God more important than Santa?" So she and Little Cub head off on a polar expedition to find God and to see how he gave them Christmas. Along the way, they find signs that God is at work all around them. Through Mama's gentle guidance, Little Cub learns about the very first Christmas and discovers that... Jesus is the best present of all. This enchanting tale provides the perfect opportunity to help young children celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and to discover how very much God loves them.

The Nativity


Julie Vivas - 1986
    With illustrations that are enchanting and unexpected, Julie Vivas reveals the human side to Mary's story, beautifully imagining the Angel Gabriel delivering the news to her, the exhausting journey with Joseph to Bethlehem, and at last the deliverance of the baby Jesus.

Christmas Day in the Morning


Pearl S. Buck - 1955
    Buck and acclaimed artist Mark Buehner comes a heartwarming story that illustrates the true meaning of Christmas.Rob wants to get his father something special for Christmas this year—something that shows how much he really loves him. But it's Christmas Eve, and he doesn't have much money to spend. What could he possibly get? Suddenly, Rob thinks of the best gift of all...The acclaimed author of nearly a hundred books for children and adults, Pearl S. Buck captures the spirit of Christmas in this elegant, heartening story about a boy's gift of love. Originally published in 1955, this timeless story with glorious full-color art by Mark Buehner will be a welcome addition to your holiday collection.

The Story of Holly and Ivy


Rumer Godden - 1958
    and Mrs. Jones all have one Christmas wish. Ivy, an orphan, wishes for a real home and sets out in search of the grandmother she's sure she can find. Holly, a doll, wishes for a child to bring her to life. And the Joneses wish more than anything for a son or daughter to share their holiday. Can all three wishes come true? This festive tale is perfectly complemented by beloved Barbara Cooney's luminous illustrations, filled with the warm glow of the Christmas spirit.

The Spirit of Christmas


Nancy Tillman - 2009
    But the best gift of all-the most magical gift of the season-is when we spend Christmas with those we love.Once again, this New York Times-bestselling author and artist has created a special, beautiful book that families will want to share year after year. (And readers will want to look for the Spirit of Christmas image that Nancy Tillman has hidden on every page!)

The Berenstain Bears Meet Santa Bear


Stan Berenstain - 1984
    How can Santa's sleigh land when there's no snow on the ground? How can he possibly fit down all those skinny-minny little chimneys? And how come every mall has a different Santa? These are just some of the highly delicate issues handled in this classic First Time Book that's back in print with a cheery new cover for a new generation of Bear fans.  From the Hardcover edition.

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 Very First Easter


Paul L. Maier - 1999
    "'Remember, Mom? I don't like fairy tales anymore, ' Christopher said with a sigh."So Mom and Dad tell Christopher the story of the very first Easter, and the sorrow and joy of Jesus' trial, death, and resurrection. Christopher learns important details about this miraculous event that help him understand the season's celebration. And he discovers his own special link to the very first Easter. The award-winning team of Paul L. Maier and Francisco Ordaz work together again to bring children ages 9 to 12 a vivid picture of Jesus' last days on Earth. "The Very First Easter makes a wonderful gift for children, families, and friends. Paul L. Maier writers, "These pages return to the sacred focus on the true Easter story that is so often missing on literature for the young. This book answers the real questions children ask about Easter."

The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree: An Appalachian Story


Gloria Houston - 1988
    This unforgettable tale, illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Barbara Cooney, has become a seasonal classic-a touching and joyful story about courage and the power of family.

One Starry Night


Lauren Thompson - 2008
    . . little ones everywhere are watched over with care. Most special of all, Mary and Joseph watch over their newborn babe . . .and the world is filled with love.

A Charlie Brown Christmas


Charles M. Schulz - 1965
    It seems like everybody has forgotten what Christmas is truly about. But Lucy, Linus, and the whole Peanuts gang have some holiday surprises that will make even Charlie Brown feel merry!

The True Gift: A Christmas Story


Patricia MacLachlan - 2009
    With help from the community, they have a Christmas they will never forget.