Advent Books

Winter break has arrived, and the Callahan cousins (Hillary, Kate, Phoebe, and Neeve) have decided to spend their holiday vacation together at Grandmother Gee's rambling estate in the lovely, and very holiday-oriented, Gull Island. The reunion won't be as long as last summer, but the four girls, along with sprightly Gee, plan on making the most of it. Especially Phoebe. Phoebe, the voracious reader, has dreamt of a perfect, traditional Christmas ever since she was a mere toddler, lugging around her copy of Laura Ingalls Wilder's LITTLE HOUSE IN THE BIG WOODS. However, living in sunny Florida, and having a father insistent upon un-Christmas-like traditions, Phoebe has never gotten her wish. But this year, she knows things will be different. This year, with a little help from her beloved cousins, and Gee, along with Gee's cook, Sheila, Phoebe has decided that everything will be traditional. From the Victorian-era tree they decorate in the living room, to the foods and desserts they indulge in, even going as far as wishing the snow would stick for once. However, the more that Phoebe becomes obsessed with snowman contests, sledding, caroling, making snow angels, and even participating in a Christmas-themed sleepover at the Gull Island Whaling Museum, the more she drives the people around her crazy. Now, with Phoebe planning an extra special, extra furry, holiday gift for Gee, the cousins realize just how out-of-hand Phoebe's plans for a proper traditional Christmas have become, and enlist the help of Gee to talk some sense into her before the holiday is ruined. and Phoebe's plans for a proper traditional Christmas go out the window.

As a voracious reader myself, who has always dreamed of a proper traditional Christmas in the fashion of those described in the works of Laura Ingalls Wilder, Louise May Alcott, and countless others, I found myself forming an instant bond with Phoebe, and understanding exactly what she was looking for in terms of Christmas and celebration, straight off the bat. In fact, to a certain extent, I almost felt as if this story was written about me - a feeling I rarely experience. Elizabeth Doyle Carey has done an amazing job of capturing the emotions of Phoebe, as well as those of the people around her. Her descriptions of highs and lows, disappointments, and excitement are accurate, and really send the reader into fits of joy and sadness along with the characters. In TOGETHER AGAIN, Carey features countless narratives that truly bring the imagery to life; from the snow-covered plains and trees, to the smells of delicious desserts baking; all the way to the screeching, yet joyful, sounds of carolers, and the gift that you receive from helping those less fortunate than yourself. Mixed together, these things present a delightful holiday story that will warm anyone's heart. My only qualm is that a recipe for the angel cakes wasn't included. An enjoyable, can't-put-down tale, that will leave you in the Christmas spirit - even during those warm, summer months!

Erika Sorocco
Freelance Reviewer

After re-reading this poignant touching love story again, I can only say "Callie & Zora" is a beautiful, compelling tale that gets better with each read! Whether child or adult you will be drawn to these two "soulmates" and their engrossing life experiences. My eyes teared with sadness and joy as their story unfolded! I strongly recommend "Callie & Zora" for children, their parents, or anyone who enjoys good reading and good writing!! Also, the wonderful illustrations only add to a totally enjoyable time spent with "Callie & Zora".

This book provides a whole new look at The Christmas Story. It is a wonderfully written, well illustrated account of a camel's view of the birth of the Christ Child. Highly recommended

What a fabulous gift for all of the mothers and wives out there who strive to make Christmas and the Holidays all they can be for everyone. It has humor, truth and wisdom.
Give it to all whom you know. It is a treasure worth reading every year before Christmas.

Written by Vincent McDonnell, Can Timmy Save Toyland is a chapter book for young adult readers, especially those about 9-12 years of age. Continuing the action-filled adventures of Timmy Goodfellow from "The Boy Who Saved Christmas", Can Timmy Save Toyland? places Timmy in a battle of wits, skill, and determination against his old nemesis, Mister Carbuncle, whose schemes to accelerate the depletion of the ozone layer and melt the ice around Toyland is making even Santa Claus desperate for help. Even worse, Timmy's little sister Katie is kidnapped and held hostage! An engaging, Christmas-themed adventure.

This wonderful book that is a part of the Christmas in My Heart Volumes is unique in that the stories were chosen with children specifically in mind. It is a gift book with heirloom qualities. The special details are a pleasure to behold and there are pages for entries of special Christmas memories, activities, scriptures and photos etc. It is a lovely book to share with loved ones and pass down to children and grandchildren. Delightful!

I thought that the book was wonderful for little people and i would read it to my children all the time and i think the pictures where a good idea because children do not want to read anything with words in it and even if it does have words they do not read them anyway they may say they do but they do not so that is my point of view.

How much fun to read Julie sykes and Tim Warnes books. Santa has many silly accidents. His animal friends try to help, but no matter what, Santa keeps having problems. Even the little mouse that rides along in Santa's sleigh becomes stuck in a tree after the big Crash. Santa and his animal friends gather up all the spilled gifts and rescue the little mouse before taking flight again. "Santa scrambled to his feet. The presents were scattered far and wide and he hurried to pick them up. He didn't notice the frozen pond."

Nice pictures and a very cute story.

This delightful story about a spider is a great way to learn the meanings of the symbols of Christmas. A great story for families who believe in Christ. A story for all ages to enjoy learning the true reason for the season. Darling illustrations, even if you don't like spiders, you will enjoy this book.

Jigsaw Jones is a modern detective. He talks like children talk today, he is "cool", and children can identify with him. It would be unfair to say that "The case of the Christmas Snowman" is his best case ever because all of Jigsaw's cases are good. My children love him and collect all his books, this one is no exception.