Books For the Kids at Heart

Who else loves picture books?

Don't look at me that way; you're never too old to love kids' picture books.

Come to think of it, I can list more Christmas kids' books than I can Christmas books for my age.

Before you think I've gone completely off my rocker, let me say this: if you think you're too old or mature to be reading picture books, then... well, you might as well not read this post.  Because it'd be a waste of your time.

ANYWAY.

In no particular order...

The Candle in the Forest by Joe Wheeler

Eight treasured tales will charm young readers and journaling pages will turn this book into a keepsake.  Gather the family and pass on the tradition of sharing stories of faith, hope, and love.

Containing several different stories, these are perfect for reading by yourself or reading aloud to siblings. ;)

The Pine Tree Parable by Liz Curtis Higgs

The Pine Tree Parable tells the heartwarming tale of a Farmer and his family who nurture tiny seedlings into fragrant Christmas trees.  When the trees are tall enough to offer their neighbors, the Farmer's wife plans to keep the most beautiful pine tree for her family, until one snowy December night when a child teaches her the true meaning of Christmas.

Ohh, yes.  A simple reminder that we shouldn't keep things for ourselves—Christmas is a time for giving, and for thanking—thanking God for what He did for us.

The Legend of the Christmas Tree by Rick Osborne, adapted by Pat Matuszak

In this adaptation of the best-selling story of The Legend of the Christmas Tree, little ones ages 4 and under can discover the wonderful story of how the evergreen tree first became a symbol of Christmas and a way to tell people about God.

*Coughs* Yes, that's a board book.  Yes, it does say '4 and under'.  But hey, it's one of the few Christmas book that we've had around the house for as long as I can remember (see how it's worn?); you could say it's a keepsake.  Of sorts. XD

Punchinello and the Most Marvelous Gift by Max Lucado

The Maker-Day Festival brings out the best that Wemmicksville has to offer.  The best cake, the best bouquet, and the best music.  But when Punchinello's disastrous mistake threatens to ruin the festival, all the Wemmicks discover the most marvelous gift.  And they all sing out: "We like you.  We love you.  We all agree—without you, Eli, there'd be no we."

So, this has always been one of my very, very favorites.  When I was little, and I got to pick a book for Daddy or Mom to read aloud, that's what I'd always pick.  Kord, too.

The Crippled Lamb by Max Lucado

Because Joshua the Lamb was different, he often felt left out-like on the wintry night when he was left behind in a Bethlehem stable. This touching tale helps kids see that even if they're different, God has a unique plan for their lives.

Another one that we've had for as long as I can remember.  It's one of Mom's favorites, it's a sweet story, and I love the illustrations. ;)

The Gift of the Christmas Cookie by Dandi Daley Mackall

It's the Christmas season during a time when people had little money to spend.  Cookie jars held pennies, not Christmas cookies.  So when Jack smells something delicious coming from the kitchen, he can't believe his nose.  Cookies!

But his excitement turns to disappointment when he learns the cookies aren't for him.  Instead, Mother is baking them for the needy people at their church.  While Jack helps roll our the dough, his mother tells him the story of the Christmas cookie.  

In a captivating interplay of simple words and beautiful illustrations, The Gift of the Christmas Cookie tells a tender story of giving—not just cookies, but gifts of the heart that last forever.

Ahh, I love this story.  Not only is it a great reminder about what Christmas is really all about, but it's also got cookies.  Sugar, ya'll.  I don't know about you, but I have a weakness for stories with food—especially dessert.  XD

A Child's Christmas at St. Nicholas Circle by Douglas Kane McKelvey

In A Child's Christmas at St. Nicholas Circle, the artwork of world-renowned painter Thomas Kinkade brings to life a story destined as a Christmas classic.

Little Henry and his sister Katie will always remember the Christmas Eve that the mysterious message started to come through the telegraph machine at the town's train station.  Yet after only part of the message had appeared, a winter storm suddenly snapped the power lines.

"Good news - stop an important guest will arrive at St. Nicholas Circle by train to—"

Amazed to think someone important was making a special visit to their little town, the entire community turned out to welcome this mysterious guest.  But it is six-year-old Henry whose faith changed the lives of his family and those of a family of strangers.  The lessons of treating others with respect and sacrificial love come alive, as does the enchanting art by Kinkade.

Hearwarming and thought-provoking, this story brings out the fact that we should welcome everyone—whether they're "important" or not.

~Kaitlyn