Bookshelf Refresh | Christmas 2019
I love a seasonal book shelf! Not only does it keep my girl’s attention at bed time (and throughout the day during quieter moments), but it’s a beautiful way to celebrate the many seasons and traditions that we experience throughout life. I’ve also found them to be great learning opportunities for them as they start to discover how the world as a whole works, how they fit in it and it helps them begin to grasp the concept of time itself.
The Shortest Day
Newbery Medalist Susan Cooper’s beloved poem heralds the winter solstice. I chose this one 100% for the cover. As I do a lot of books (oops). The illustrations by Carson Ellis are stunning. I’ve bought anything I can with her name on it. The tone of the tale is one of hope, anticipation, joy and love, culminating with Yule. It captures the magic behind the returning of the light, the yearning for traditions that connect us with generations that came before — and the hope for peace in the year to come.
Winter Sleep: A Hibernation Story
In this cozy bedtime story, follow a child and his grandma through a winter landscape to explore how the Earth goes to sleep for winter. Spot the sleeping animals as the tale unfolds, then learn all about their hibernation habits. It’s not a typical “Christmas” story, but I love it for its teachable moments and snowy wonderscape.
The Tree that’s Meant to Be
A heartfelt, gorgeous holiday story about a lonely little Christmas tree that learns what it means to be loved—with a powerful message to children that they are perfect just as they are. It also presents the important message that the spirit of Christmas is about compassion and togetherness.
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