Turn to "Angels and Other Strangers" for a different view of Christmas. In the title story, Julia and her children are on their way to pick up Aunt Patty, an unwelcome but unavoidable Christmas guest. But they've run out of gas, and now a stranger is approaching the car. Only four-year-old Kevin is unconcerned: in response to the man's quiet "Don't be afraid," Kevin tells his mother excitedly, "That's what angels say." And in the story "Maggie's Gift," Mr McGee offers to share his Christmas with two children from the Children's Home. He anticipates with delight the joyous time that they will share. But the two tough, undisciplined kids who arrive are not the little angels he has been expecting, and soon Mr McGee is getting into the Alka-Seltzer. The hidden angels in these stories remind us that we too can see beyond the Christmas-tree angel to the less easily recognized angels who live among us.
From angels to wise men ... the delightful picture book "The Fourth Wise Man" tells the tale of Artaban, the wise man who was left behind by his three comrades. But he doesn't let that put him off his quest: "I will follow the star until I find the secrets of life!" Join Artaban in his journey, and learn how his quest is fulfilled in a most unexpected way.
"The cattle are lowing..." But was there also a cat making its home in that stable two thousand years ago? "The Cat Who Knew the Meaning of Christmas" is a simple and beautiful story for all who love both Christmas and cats.
For something completely different, try "A Northern Nativity". What if Jesus had been born in an igloo? Or a fisherman’s hut? Or a lumber camp? The paintings in this book are fabulous, and the last one is my favourite.
No time to read this Christmas? Perhaps you'd like to try a little Mexican "Revoltijo" (romeritos in chilli sauce with shrimps and prickly pear), or some Greek "Kolyva" (sweet, spicy remembrance wheat). You'll find recipes and customs from many different countries in "Christmas: A Cook’s Tour."
Last but definitely not least, because it’s a personal favourite, "The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey" is a moving and memorable story with gorgeous illustrations. The village woodcarver is nicknamed "Mr Gloomy" and believes that Christmas is "pish-posh." He takes the job of carving a nativity scene only because he needs the money, but something special happens as he works on the figures, striving to match young Thomas' precise descriptions of each one. If you read just one book this Christmas, read and treasure this one!
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Last updated in March 2007.