The Very First Christmas

Christopher is curious. He asks a lot of questions.

As Christopher's mother tucks him into bed one night, Christopher announces that he wants true stories from now on, not fairy stories. As Christmas time is fast approaching, Mom studies the Christmas story for herself and then sets up a Nativity scene in Christopher's room so they can talk about it together.

As they read through the Biblical account in Luke 2, which is included in this text, Christopher asks some more questions. He asks about the months of the year as they relate to Julius and Augustus Caesar. He asks about Mary and Joseph traveling for the census. He asks about babies being born before a wedding (which is answered in a very age-appropriate way), he asks about why Mary was the one chosen to be the mother of Jesus, and he asks about Joseph and his carpentry business.

Christopher and his mother talk about Jesus' lineage from King David, he asks about the date of Christmas and then the BC/AD division. They talk about the stable/cave, the fear of the shepherds, and the journey of the Wise Men. They even talk about the author, Luke, and how he may have known this story.

They even touch upon the most important question of all, “How do we know this story is true?”

This book is sure to answer the questions your little ones may have, and some they may not have even thought of yet. I think parents and children under ten or so, will all appreciate this thoughtful discussion of a story that might become rote, without a little deeper thought once in a while.

Honestly, this book might answer some of your own questions, or at least give you understandable, thoughtful responses when you are the one being questioned. I appreciate that the answers are given as possibilities when there is no definite information given in Scripture. The conversational style is interesting and insightful, and will give us a “ready answer for the hope that is within us”(I Peter 3:15).

I am just a tad disappointed by the author's portrayal of Christopher's desire for truth as opposed to fairy tales (a balance is healthy, in my opinion), and while the last statement:

“Real stories – especially God's story – were certainly better than fairy tales.”

is technically true, it unnecessarily minimizes the power of fairy tales to convey truth and beauty.

The illustrations are soft and restful, perfect for bedtime reading or family devotions.

CONTENT CONSIDERATIONS

none for most, 2CV violations for those in that camp.