Advent Books

I knew exactly what I was getting. This is a very touching story, with illustrations that match the images in my mind. I've known the tale by heart since first I read it. It's nice to hold it in my hands, to share with others, too.

This is a quiet little Christmas story, subtle, a fable for adults and older children. I first purchased a copy 30 years ago and was delighted to see it was being re-released. I sent 17 copies to friends and sharing this little story was a highlight of the holiday for me.

It has wonderful dense illustrations by Trina Schart Hyman, an illustrator of hundreds of books, and also a founder and frequent contributor to "Cricket", a quality magazine for children.

The story tells of a lonely woman who is unexpectedly visited by an "ugly child" and how that experience slowly opens her heart. Who hasn't felt a bit grumpy, been cheered by a visit from a friend, or longed for the feeling of "enough"? Really, you must read it!!

This is a timeless tale that transcends the hype and materialistic madness that have ruined Christmas. The gentle and simple message of this story can be read and heard over and over again with fresh delight each time. I'm so very happy that this book is still in print. It is my all time favorite holiday read-aloud. I have given the book to everyone in my family and many close friends as well.

For as long as I can remember, every Christmas Eve my family would gather around my dad as he read this story to us. Although we are all adults now, and two spouses have entered the family, we all still look forward to hearing this story read aloud. We practically know it by heart. It captures the warmth and beauty of the simplicity of sharing, with humorous characters and perfect illustrations to match. And I know the tradition will continue on in our own families.

If you want to start a Christmas tradition for your children, their children and following generations...this is THE book to have. It's a story about giving, sharing and all those important ideals we want our children to carry with them into adulthood.

Rose Keefe has an amazing skill for bringing a long overlooked part of NYC's underworld history back to life. The Starker pulls you in page by page as the layers of time are pulled away from the incredible figure Big Jack Zelig and the role he played in his community and in events that were outside of his control as in the Becker-Rosenthal affair. Keep up the good work Rose and I know you will score another home run with your new project on Benny Fein!

Alana

Rose Keefe's The Starker, Big Jack Zelig, The Becker - Rosenthal Case, And The Advent Of The Jewish Gangster,has been worth the wait.

Keefe's book expands on what has really been in essence a supporting subplot of the entire Herman Rosenthal / Charles Becker affair. The Starker now brings Zelig to the forefront, with great new insights and information on his early days leading up to his guiding the scattered Eastman gang back on track after a life changing and violent incident in Chicago; his utter disdain for gamblers and drugs; his actual involvement in the Rosenthal case; and to that fateful trolley ride in October of 1912. New life is breathed into Zelig and his role in the short history of Jewish mob bosses.

Anyone with an interest in not just pre-World War I, but overall Jewish Gangster history, and to get a better understanding of the seeds from which it all grew, should seek this book out.

I was really excited about getting my copy of "The Starker" from Rose. I started the book immediately and it is a great book. I've learned more and more about Jewish gangsters in the last few years than I ever have before. It's been a wild ride sharing stories and pictures of my grandfather, Dopey Benny Fein with Rose and I cannot wait for her next book about Benny.
I had heard stories about Big Jack Zelig before, but this book tells the entire story of his short, but interesting life. This is a real page turner. Keep up the great work Rose!!!!!!!!!!!!!

For far to long the Pre-Prohibition era gangsters have been ignored in favor of their rum running followers but thanks to Rose Keefe that has now changed. Most gangsterphiles know Jack Zelig as the guy who came after Kid Twist Zweifach and before Dopey Benny Fein but there is so much more to the story. Zelig was a complex man who had no asperations to be a gangleader but more or less had the task thrust upon him. Thanks to this book he will move from the background and take his rightful place amongst the gangsters of note. There is also a plethora of new info about the Jewish & Italian gangs from the early 20th Century as well as surprising new evidence regarding the Becker/Rosenthal affair. All of this insures that the Starker will be the benchmark for all future historic gangster biographies.

Being the great-great nephew of Zelig, I obviously took an immense interest in this book. However, putting all personal emotional attachments aside, I can honestly say that Ms. Keefe's book is wonderful. It is written in a style that makes the story incredibly interesting, and puts the reader right there in the middle of turn-of-the-century New York. It is clear that she devoted her heart and soul into the telling of this story, and spent many, many hours on the research.

I thank Ms. Keefe for teaching me about some of the unknown past in my family's history, and for introducing the rest of the world to this incredible man. I highly recommend the book to anyone interested in true crime novels or history in general.

Jeff Perlowin
Aberdeen, NJ

It's so hard to explain just how beautiful the illustrations in this book are. My son learned the entire poem the first year we read it when he was 3 1/2 and it is a book he looks forward to getting out every year. There are other great illustrators who have done Twas the Night Before Christmas, but there is something so special about these dot illustrations that I'm so grateful we happened upon THIS book.

This book has nice black and white illustrations, and "old English" spellings. The cover is a subtle forest green, wine red binding and some gold.

What a contrast from the brightly-colored character-loaded images from other books and videos that fill our children's lives.

Children love colors, but wouldn't it be good to expose them to different things once in while?

I purchased this book for my family for Christmas. I found it absolutely beautiful! There is a short introduction in the beginning that tells the history of the poem. The drawings are exquisite and the binding is simply elegant. I love everything about this book! I intend to keep it in our family and pass it down for generations!

I received this book quickly and was pleased to see the pictures were exactly what I had hoped for and the words were exactly the ones used in the original "Yes, Virginia, There Is A Santa Claus".
My little 3 year old grandson listened intently as we read it to him. He wanted to see the pictures as the story was read and explained to him. This book will become a treasure of our family, to be read and re-read year after year.

My mother used to read me this poem every christmas eve which became a magical tradition. The book was misplaced in a move and my mother and i have not read it since I was young. So I ordered this version for her christmas this year and when it arrived I was more than pleased. The book is stunning in more ways than one, and the artwork really shows how magical and heartwarming the story is. I shall give it to my mother on christmas eve and I know she will treasure it.. as will my kids and there kids after them. This book without a doubt will become an heirloom. Wether you are looking for a new copy or buying twas the night before christmas for the first time, I highly recommend this version. Enjoy.

How often do you find a children's Christmas book that is truly entertaining? This one was. The main character, Katie, an inquiring 'tween, is vulnerable, unexpected and funny. After reading about her love of family, her desire to preserve tradition and endless curiosity regarding an eccentric history professor, I wished she could be our next-door neighbor. My own kids couldn't stop talking about Katie or this book. The illustrations were an absolute treat. Anyone that enjoys a good yarn, engaging characters and a dash of holiday magic will love this new, children's classic.

I loved this book for both the marvelously warm illustrations and for Joseph's understanding of how a 12-year-old would feel, faced with the possibility that Santa doesn't exist exactly as she has believed all her life. I gave this book to my girlfriend's daughter for Christmas; she's 12 and recently learned the truth about Santa.

This wonderful book will remind us all that there is still Magic in Christmas. It shows us that it is better to give then to receive. You don't have to be a child to enjoy this story. You only need to beleive in the Spirit of Christmas. Winter Spirit will be added to my traditional Christmas reading list.
Thank you Gina for the reminder to always believe in the Spirit of Christmas.

i found this to be a fresh outlook on the christmas story,being the parent and grandparent of children between the ages of eight and twelve. i found the story allowes children of all ages to still believe in the spirit of christmas, all the while its lessons are wrapped in a story of giving and sharing that brings back memories of all my christmas's. the book is beautifully illustrated.Surley this will be on my coffee table during the holiday season for years to come.

The Winter Spirit is a pleasure to read. The book has the skills to draw our attention to believe in what is good. The book also allows you to have a tear, have a laugh and the ability to make you feel the warm and meaningful work.

Thank you,
Kaethe's Mom

Mem Fox has done it again! Fox uses the special animals of Australia to illustrate that eachof us has a special place in life that we're each suited for. Love the illustration and the possitive way the animals handled finding that special place for Wombat. It was a favorite of ours this last Christmas, but we also keep it out year round and visitors to our home love reading it.

This Australian story about a young wombat wanting the lead in the school Christmas play, tugs at the heart strings of those who don't always get what they want. In the end the young wombat learns that all the parts in the Christmas play are important and together the actors create a wonderful experience for all in their animal rendition of the Christmas Story. Beautiful illustrations.

Although not the best of Mem Fox's work Wombat Divine is a very good story about an enthusiastic main character who doesn't quite have the ability to be initially succeed where he wants but has his dream come through in the end. A wombat has always dreamed of being in a nativity play but each character he tries out for, he finds out he is unsuited for.

The great story though is let down by very average illustrations by Kerry Argent, which is a shame as those who have read the wombat tale Sebastian Lives in a Hat know she can do a very good job when she puts in the effort and can draw very realistic looking wombats. None of the Australian animals in Wombat Devine actually resemble the Australian wildlife they are supposed to be. Wombat looks like a bear, the emu for some reason has wings that can come out of the front of its body like arms which emus in real life no doubt wish for but don't have, the echidna is just the platypus with a lot of yellow triangles coming out of its body, the bilby looks like a rabbit (no wonder Mem Fox dumped this illustrator and went with Pamela Lofts for the sensational Hunwick's Egg where the bilby actually looks like a bilby.

See my review for Time for Bed. This is another book from Mem Fox and an animal from Australia.

Wombat Divine is an Australian Classic and in my opinion one of Mem Fox's best. My family now own hundreds of childrens' picture books, but this was the first one I ever bought my son. It still remains a firm favourite with us. The illustrations are delightful, as is the story. It's a must have for the Christmas book collection - something a little different and makes a great gift. You can't help but fall in love with Wombat.

My in-laws got this book for all of their grandkids one year at Christmas. My son is only two and a half, but I've read it to him the past two Christmas seasons and it always makes me cry. It is a beautifully written book, with words that speak to the heart. It's nearly impossible to express in words the love that parents have for their children, but this book does a great job at doing just that. I will definitely be buying "You are My I Love You" as well.

an outstanding children's book - nice price break on it - arrived on time and in perfect shape

What a sweet, sweet message this book has...describes in a unique way just how much a child is loved.

!!!!!!Wonderful "lyrics" and beautiful message- reads like a song. This is a beautiful gift from any parent to a child who brightens your life. This would also be a lovely gift to a new parent.

Wonderful book at the chirstmas season, to help parents take a moment and read with their children. It is such a sweet book.

My niece is into dancing and reading books, so the Angelina Ballerina series if perfect for her. I chose to give her this book for Christmas because it fit the holiday theme.

I really loved this book. It was my very first book I got. Of course I got it because my name is Angelina. When I was little I used to think the book was actually about me! I own the first publication of this book and noticed that in the original one I've got it says "Santa Clause" and in the new one that my little cousin has it says "Father Christmas". I don't understand the change. Although I still recommend this book for any little girl who loves to dance, or who's name is Angelina!

I came across Angelina's books a while ago. ...Great book, speaks to the kids for real

Young Angelina Ballerina couldn't be more upset when she spots old Mr. Bell sitting all by his lonesome at Christmastime, looking like a sad puppy. Mr. Bell used to be the jovial postman in town, who brought gifts and cards to everyone during the holidays, and played the town Santa Claus for all of the little mouselings. Angelina, full of Christmas spirit, decides that it is up to her to make Mr. Bell's season bright. So, with the help of her young cousin Henry, as well as her father, Angelina bundles up some cookies and cakes to bring to Mr. Bell. But when they arrive, Henry is too concerned about Christmas Eve, and whether or not he will have the chance to see Santa Claus in the flesh, to notice the joy that twinkles in Mr. Bell's eyes at the prospect of visitors and good, old-fashioned holiday cheer. When Henry learns that Santa Claus comes in the middle of the night, and that he won't get to speak to the illustrious Saint Nick, he bursts out in tears. That is, until he learns that there's a live Santa Claus living amongst them all, right here in town, and that his presence will not only bring a smile to young Henry's face, but fill old Mr. Bell with the joy of the holiday, as well.

ANGELINA BALLERINA can be called nothing less than a children's icon. Her presence in numerous glorious children's books, and now in her own TV show make her more and more well-known, while her lovable, kind heart grows bigger by the day. Katharine Holabird works wonders with a pen, as she tells the tales of the young, ballet-loving mouseling who has big dreams, accompanied by an even bigger heart; while the gorgeous, full-color illustrations by Helen Craig bring each and every Angelina "tail" to life. ANGELINA'S CHRISTMAS is a charming addition to the mouseling library, and a wonderful holiday classic for all!

Erika Sorocco

This beautifully illustrated tale gives the reader a warm feeling when a retired postal worker, who is alone in the world, is visited by Angelina and invited to appear as Father Christmas at the school Christmas show. The community appreciates his contribution and he is invited to the school show every year. This is a wonderful reminder to us all that the elderly should not only be cherished, but that they still have much to offer to the community.

One of the best Christmas books I have read. This will be a must read EVERY year for me.

At The Manger: The Stories Of Those Who Were There by Peter V. Orullian is a touching and imaginative novel about what it must have truly been like to witness the birth of Jesus Christ. Presenting viewpoints of this monumental event from a wide variety of perspectives imbued with humility and respectful wonder, At The Manger is highly recommended as uplifting, thoughtful, and thoroughly entertaining reading.

This book is a work of fiction surrounding the nativity. It doesn't tell the stories of anyone the Gospels identify as being there-- Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the wise men (though indications are the wise men arrived a year or two after Jesus' birth, long after Joseph and Mary settled into a house in Bethlehem)-- but rather speculates on what other people might have been drawn to the manger, telling their tales from their perspectives. In general, the stories were touching and inspiring and I enjoyed the book. It was a quick read. Each story stood on its own, but there was a connecting thread between them, so the book was, indeed, a book rather than simply a collection of stories centered around the manger.

I did, however, have some... not really complaints so much as vague disaffections with the book.

For one, few of the people in the book were drawn to the manger by the shepherds' story, as one might suppose. Rather, most of them seem to have stumbled upon the scene or been drawn there by the star. That bothered me a bit. I've never felt that the star was particularly spectacular-- only the wise men, who were stargazers by profession, are ever mentioned as having even noticed it. The angels didn't instruct the shepherds to follow it, but rather to seek a child wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. Nevertheless, various people in the stories follow the star to the manger, where they recall half-forgotten tales their parents or grandparents or whoever told them that lead them to immediately conclude that this baby must be the Messiah.

Which is, in fact, my second problem. While the prophecies are there in the Old Testament, they're not all in one place and until Jesus fulfilled them, weren't often seen as referring to the Messiah. That's why so many Jews then and to this day do not recognise Jesus as (having been) the Messiah. He didn't fit what they expected. Now, people who heard the shepherds' story might be expected to think the baby Jesus might be the Messiah, but those having just stumbled on the manger? I'm just not so sure.

My third problem is a little more difficult to explain. But I had a sense of dissatisfaction with the author's selection of characters whose tales make up the book. Oh, the characters were realistic enough, well-rounded and realised. But, they were all people who were down on their luck, unrepentant dregs of society, and/or in despair. While the birth of the Christ certainly speaks to those people, then, today and in the future, the story isn't just for them. I felt by leaving out the well-to-do (and those who were perhaps not wealthy but getting by adequately and mostly happy with their life) that the author somehow implied that the Christmas story has nothing for them, doesn't apply to them.

So, while it was an enjoyable read, to me it felt unfinished, as if the stories of the other people who, surely, must have been there got left out. While these stories were wonderful, I would like to read those other stories, too.

This is an amazing new Christmas story. I love books that make me think and take me out of my comfort zone. "At the Manger" was a cause for personal reflection and a series of short stories that all weave together the lessons of giving and personal sacrifice. At the Manger TOUCHED MY HEART. It is an awesome book to add to your collection.

I must admit I am not usually a reader of Christmas stories. In fact, I only picked this book up on the recommendation of a friend. Upon reading it, however, I found it to be a great read, with excellent writing and intriguing plotlines, brought together by the central event. I would definitely recommend this book for those who enjoy Christmas stories, as well as those who just enjoy a well written, well crafted read!

Candle is a gentle, refined Basenji who "brought a glow into human hearts when she was near." Her story explains several Basenji physical traits as relating to the birth of Christ and her journey with the wise men. This must have been written by someone who loves a Basenji as much as I love my Basenji companion. The care given to the illustrations and the joy within them captures the Basenji spirit and soul. It may seem like a child's Christmas story but anyone who loves a Basenji will delight in it. It is a small cost for something that brings deep joy and although I bought it on a whim it has become one of my most treasured books. If you know a Basenji lover, scoop this one up.

A must for a Basenji lover's library.

This story is not only wonderful for children, but also adult basenji lovers. A must for ever family who has ever had or known a basenji. Candle will find a place in your heart forever!

A delightful story for all ages, this beautifully illustrated tale of the little Basenji who shares in the joy and wonder of the first Christmas is truly a timeless classic!

A basenji friendly household boasted of a pair of breeding basenjis and their two adorable puppies. The senior basenjis told their puppies the story of Candle, a basenji ancestor who really did show everyone the way.

An African breed that boasts of a more than 2,000 year history, the famed "barkless" dog (basenjis yodel and make laughing noises instead), these dogs were the loved pets of Egyptian aristocracy and nobility. The story of Candle takes place in Egypt.

A lovable young basenji named Candle is the adored pet in a royal household. Basenjis, naturally intelligent and curious were aware that something wonderful and miraculous was about to take place. The "basenji network" were aware that the days of excess and idolatry were soon to be challenged; a miracle was on the way.

Candle and her owner, a young Egyptian gentleman saw the Star shining brightly in the East and knew they had to follow it....

Readers will yodel with delight as well. This is truly a wonderful family bonding book and it is certainly a beautiful illustration of love and faith. I can't recommend it highly enough. I love it! The lovely illustrations and the gentle story will captivate readers of all ages.

Candle will light a path to the hearts of all who read her story.

i recieved this book for christmas last year i read it in 2 days and passed it on to my mother we both enjoyed it very much

Chicken Soup books are a wonderful addition to any personal library. The Christmas Treasury stories really put you in a Christmas Holiday mood. They are heart warming stories and are a must read for this time of year. Be sure to keep a box of tissues handy.

I have never bought a Chicken Soup for the Soul book I didn't like. The stories always get to me and tug at my heart. I especially love holiday stories and read them to my kids during devotion time after dinner. Also great to read after Advent Devotions. I especially love Chicken Soup for The Christian Families Soul. You wont be dissappointed with this book.

I had never read a "Chicken Soup for the Soul" book but I had heard such good things about them that I decided to pick this one up and sure enough it's great!! It really got me in a holiday spirit which I needed and the first story made me want to cry. I can't wait to finish this book and get it out next year. I might even buy a few copies for my friends. I really want to read more of the "Chicken Soup for the Soul" series and I think you should too!

For the last couple of years I have shared these stories with my family at Christmas time. I am eager to see if there is a sequel to this book already published or one in the works. It is so easy to get caught in the commercial mess and frenzied pace of Christmas that it is so easy to forget what the season is about. From what I understand some of the stories were directly written for this book and others came from other Chicken Soup for the Soul books. Higher recommended reading for anyone who loves the holidays but occasionally forgets what the meaning of the season is.