Christmas Books

Although I admit prejudice, being a proud friend of the author, I am still overwhelmed by the beauty of this book.

Laurie's story, as told from Mary's perspective, allows the reader to truly capture the fear, honor and profound responsibility of being A mother, as well as being THE mother of the son of God, and mankind's salvation. "Fear gripped my heart as we slipped through the night. God was sending us to Egypt. The land that once held my people captive would now shield His son from the sword of Herod."

While she is faithful to the biblical descriptions of the nativity, by writing from Mary's point of view, we can share in her thoughts, and we can feel the same awe and joy that allows the reader to feel transported to one of the most profound events in all of Christianity.

Kasi Kubiak's illustrations are nothing short of exquisite, evoking in me the same emotional awe as in Mercer Mayer's Beauty and the Beast. The light emanating from Jesus and the gentle detailing of each face clearly reflect that this was a labor of love for the artist. I find myself lingering on each picture and enjoy how 'alive' they look. (You also have to love an artist who uses her father's face for one of the wise men!) She has also captured MY vision of what angels look like, and I am planning on buying another copy so I may frame several pictures as they moved me greatly.

This book can be appreciated by anyone at any age, and gives an added dimension to the birth of Christ that will captivate all who read this book.

This is a great book for the holidays. I read it to my 4 year old sunday school class and they were captivated. It is making a wonderful gift for my friends and family.

I should start this review by stating that I am a very biased critic. I was an emotional supporter for Kasi Kubiak as she created the magical characters for this book. I watched as she put in hours of work, beginning the process with prilimary sketches and making numerous changes to the paintings themselves. She never considered her work done until she was absolutely positive she had captured the true emotion of the characters. Watching the work and love that went into the illustrations, I have a new found respect for artists in this profession. This book started as basic Bible text and Laurie Knowlton was brought in to add life to it after the publisher's saw Kasi's illustrations. (Laurie and Kasi were left to do the marketing for their book on their own and between the two sold approximately 800 books. Book stores mysteriously left it off the shelves during the Christmas season. Where were the publisher's?) I'm sorry the previous critic felt that Kasi's illustrations were inappropriate for this book, but everytime I look at my signed copy I see myself in Mary and the love in every stroke of Kasi's brush.

Once again, erotic editor extraordinaire Alison Tyler brings us a dazzling assortment of libidinous tales. String these beautifully horny stories across your mind like hot little bulbs of sexual brilliance, and watch the night light up and the snow turn to steam!

If you are looking for something with a bit of a holiday theme, look no more. This collection has all the steam you will need to fill the night with to keep you plenty warm! Seriously, though, I really liked it and got a kick out of most of the stories. Can't recommend this one enough. I also liked: Sex Scenes: Erotica Excerpts from the Novels of Kim Corum and recommend it, too.

Another great collection of stories from Alison Tyler. I thought it was a good idea to use the Christmas theme, but in my opinion with stories like this it can be Christmas all the year round. I bought it for my husband as a stocking filler, but couldn't resist a peek. I loved it and I'm sure he will also, even if the pages are a bit worn. It's a great one for reading out loud to your partner and that can be a real turn on if you have a hand free. Another one to check out is Suzie Van Artman's 100 Percent Erotica that's a real sexually explicit experience.

Romance "Never Say Never" by Evaldas Vigelis tells an emotional love story. One could even say it is one more interpretation of an immortal Shakespeare's tragedy "Romeo and Juliet". Of course, there is no poison and murder, everything is much more contemporary - the modern man does not need external enemies, one is quite capable of self-destruction in physical and spiritual sense. I am not going to talk about physical destruction, though the selected hero Harold is trying to arouse a need for a perfect cherished body. He is a sportsman advocating healthy life style - no spirits, the head can get dizzy only from the glance of the beloved, not from a glass of drink. Let us go back to the main idea of novel. Of course, the eternal theme is love. I have already mentioned that the plot carries some resemblance to the love story of Romeo and Juliet but the lovers of today have to confront inner trials, which are more difficult for them than outer ones. What stands on the way of love of a modern man? The man itself is against his love, it is his selfishness, egoism, lack of confidence, envy. These horrible feelings torture Edith - the main character of the book.
She is an independent woman. She is a connoisseur of her profession, valued by the colleagues, loved by the friends. Is she happy? It is hard to tell. She lives a safe life - without falls and uprisings. It is easier. There is no excitement; the feelings are sleeping behind nine doors and nine locks. Who needs them? The author at the beginning of the book presents Edith like that. Gradually the hero is changing, and she learns to live her life with feelings - the unexpected adventure in a hunter's hut makes the girl to review her life book. What has happened? The situation is rather banal: a car breaks down in a forest during a December snowstorm, and three travelers, to be more precise - two passengers and a driver are forced to look for a shelter. Roberta and Edith are typical girls from a city: they are overconfident, wearing make up, lipstick. Once they find themselves in strange surroundings, they both become scared, try to protest, but the life is putting them straight - they have to adjust. Harold is presented in a different manner. It is evident that Harold is an experienced man who has tried the taste of life. His looks - big, trained arms, muscular body - create a false impression at first. This threatening figure hides a good and sensuous heart.
The first seedlings of love spring up in the forest hut. At first, Edith passionately denies the feeling. She is even snorting, "How could I love an ordinary driver?" But love is powerful! It ruins the fences of uncertainty, the passion overwhelms the body, and the kisses break through the shell of indifference.
The short trip is over and the girls come back to their ordinary life. However, the strange adventure in the hut changes their lives - Roberta makes up with Edgar, whereas Edith starts looking for her Romeo - Harold Scott.
She has little success at the start. It appeared that visit card given to her by the driver belongs to his father. Edith is furious, but love is stronger than fury. They meet each other again by chance. They meet to stay together... no, they meet to try their feelings once again. This time their love is attacked by distrust and jealousy. Another woman beside Harold. Who is she? Another lover or just a friend? Jealousy is very lively, that is why Edith chooses the first answer: he is a Don Juan, a liar. She keeps being angry but the seedling of love does not die.
The lovers meet and part, they suffer and torture each other. Is needed only one word to solve everything but neither of them dares to utter it. Is it not the passion and the question eternal that of Shakespeare: I love but am I loved?
One more unexpected event - a broken plane by which Edith is trying to run away from her feelings - should open her eyes. But will she be able to understand the sign, which means that they should be together? I will set the reader at ease - the couple will come over all traps of uncertainty, their love is stronger.
This is a short presentation of the book "Never Say Never" by Mr. Evaldas Vigelis. It is love story. Tender and pure feelings breathe out of every page. Those who are tired from brutality, lies, cheat should love this book. Those who love and desire to experience that feeling will love the book!

When i first read this book i couldn't put it doown it is so good. I love all drama in this book and all the twist. For anyone who hasn't read this book go get it now you will not be sorry.

I enjoyed reading this romance book. It a little bit reminds a fairy tale because the hero addresses to his beloved "princess". However "princess" should learn to love, sacrifice herself and to live an unselfish life. The love changes character Edith. The selfish princess becomes loving and loved.
I liked to read this book because here it is possible to find many amusing situations that cheer up. I can tell about this book in a few words - it is a good adventure novel.

The Night Befoe Cat-Mas is a treasure for anyone who shares their life with a feline companion. It is beautifully illustrated, and the narrative is enjoyable.

This book is a take off of "The Night before Christmas" and is as dear as can be. A Purr..fect stocking stuffer for your friends who love felines.

This is an adorable parody of the story The Night Before Christmas. The illustrations are great, and the book is small enough to fit in your pocket. Not only that, it comes with a little charm that you can put on a bracelet.

This is a must read for any cat lover.

This is a simply gorgeous pop-up rendition of the familiar work. It is an instant classic in my house. My children (and I) are mesmerized by every single page.

Amazing. Fun. Inspiring. Curious. Dazzling. Great for the child in us all!

I don't much like Christmas any more. It mostly makes me crabby and wrinkled, like an old person, just at a time when I would most want to feel ebullient and charitible. Happily, there are moments each year when I feel young again and possessed of a wide-eyed sense of wonder. Reading Robert Sabudas pop-ups is one of them. This year, we are blessed with a new addition to Mr. Sabuda's Christmas series, The Night Before Christmas. I make this suggestion to all ye of Christmas weariness. First, buy The Night Before Christmas. Second, wait until you are alone to read it (you can share with children later--that's fun, too). Third, open the book to the the "reindeer" page, hold on to your socks, and prepare to be utterly charmed. It'll make a believer of you. Don't be surprised if you find yourself leaving milk and cookies out for the big guy this year! And, perhaps, believing in Angels bearing glad tidings.

This is one of the best books for exploring the rich and fertile images of darkness. So often we have negative thoughts about darkness - fearful, sad, angry, but this book shows that it is also lifegiving, nurturing, and a place of rest. Sorry to see so few copies available.

Every page of this book is filled with rich spiritual nurishment. I can't help but touch the pictures wanting to feel the collages and images of the book. The language is clear and easy to read, not the stuff of heady theology. When I read this book during the Advent Season or any other liturgical season it invites me to reconnect with the gift of the Christ Child. I come back to this book and other books by Rev. Richardson whenever I need to fill my well.

She has written the single most helpful book of mediations, prayers and poems for Advent that I've ever encountered. I have used her book extensively for writing liturgy to fit our congregation for Advent, Christmas and into Epiphany. I'd like to read more of her stuff

I have been trying to purchase this product. I own a RED poodle, and would love to purchase these cards to send to my holiday list. TOOOOO bad that they are unavailable.

These cards are a must-have for poodle lovers. I put some cards in little frames to decorate my computer desk. They are so cute you won't be able to part with them to send to others.

These greeting cards are soooo cute! I own a white poodle, but you don't have to be an owner of one to appreciate this card. The dogs on this card are absolutely precious! They make a nice replacement for reindeer. Everyone I gave one of these cards to this Christmas thought it was so adorable!

This story touched my heart. It tells you about the troubles and triumph of Christmas. The first minute I cried, the next I laughed. Phillip Ungricht is an amazing man and I am so touched by the way he can make you get so involved into the story. I have passed it to my friends and they all enjoyed it. I hope I helped you. Read this book and Christmas will mean more to you and all the people around you.

I loved this book! The story is so intriguing, and it made me love Christmas even more than I already did. It is the perfect stocking-stuffer: it is both meaningful and affordable! I am going to give copies to my neighbors and relatives this year.

This is one book you can't put down once you start reading it.
This book is so dynamic that you have to keep turning the pages to find out what happens.
You become so involved with the characters, one minute you are crying the next minute you are laughing. A very heart felt and warming story. (I believe this is a true story)
This is the TRUE meaning of Christmas.

A must read for everyone.

Noelle of the Nutcracker by Pamela Jane (with illustrations by the inimitable Jan Brett) is one of those books that I seem to have had forever. Copyrighted in 1986, my hardcover copy has been on my bedroom bookshelf since before I can remember. Needless to say that I did not remember much of the story. Happily, though, it is a fast read and I was able to finish it in a day. I dare say there are families somewhere who read this book every Christmas season the way others read Twas the Night Before Christmas and A Christmas Carol (if not, there should be).

There are two main characters in this book. One is a doll named Noelle and the other is a little girl, Ilyana. At the beginning of the story, the characters have one thing in common: they both think Noelle is wonderful.

When Ilyana and her second grade class go to visit Bugle's toy store, Ilyana is captivated by Noelle the beautiful ballerina doll that can stand in all five ballet positions and even has jointed knees and ankles. Ilyana knows her family could never afford such an expensive doll, which is fine. At least until spoiled Mary Jane decides vows that she'll get Noelle for Christmas from her rich father.

Unbeknownst to either little girl, Noelle doesn't want to be owned by anyone. While the other toys dream of being loved and held by real children, Noelle yearns to be discovered and become a dancer on stage. Noelle knows she is destined for fame when a man comes into Bugle's and buys Noelle to be a part of a production of the Nutcracker ballet. But, as Noelle painfully learns, being discovered doesn't always mean fame. And it almost never takes the place of being loved.

Noelle's story is intertwined seamlessly with Ilyana's and, to a lesser extent, Mary Jane's. As the girls get ready for their school pageant, it becomes clear that sometimes it takes more than money to make a wish come true. Sometimes, especially at Christmas, it also takes a little magic (and in this case maybe a few coincidences).

Sometimes when I read books with a child character they feel too young-I'm sure a child would enjoy them but sometimes I have a hard time relating to them on the same level of enjoyment. This book is not like that. The story is short and easy to follow, but it remained enjoyable for me reading it at the age of twenty-two. Jan Brett's illustrations also, of course, add a lot of dimension to the story (although being familiar with Brett's color-illustrated picture books I was a little sad to see the drawings were not in color). After reading the story and once again turning to the cover it's amazing to see how perfectly Brett captured Pamela Jane's vision of Noelle.

This is one of those classic Christmas stories (like the one that I mentioned earlier) that offers a nice shot of holiday spirit along with a message that's worth remembering all year.

Jan Brett is a wonderful author and, even more so, a phenomenal artist and illustrator. Her characters are playful and fun and easily loved by her young readers. My grandaughter's favourite, Annie and the Wild Animals, has been read a hundred times. I've collected a number of Jan Brett's books and hope to pass them on to my great grandchildren!!!

This is a book that makes you think back to your own childhood. To times that were simpler, sweeter, and full of dreams. The writing is a dream, and the story is perfect for the little girl on your Christmas list. What little girl today, even in the age of computers and scooters, doesn't love a doll, one, doll, a special doll, more than anything else? Pamela Jane captures the mystery of childhood, the dream of dance, and the promise of the imagination.

THE BOOK WAS GREAT. IT EXCEEDED MY EXPECTATIONS. THERE WAS EVEN A SMALL METAL NUTCRACKER BOOKMARKER WITH RED RIBBON TO MARK THE PAGES. THE GRANDCHILDREN LOVED IT.

EAch year I purchase a music box and matching book for my niece, for Christmas. I am leary of ordering online for somehing I want to be very special. I was amazed at the quality of the cover, paper used , pictures...everything. It was a beautiful addition to her collection.

This book is a treasure. My 8 yr. old daughter danced in the Nutcracker Suite Ballet and I got this book for her in place of the traditional flowers for her outstanding performance and she LOVED it and has read it several times over. The art in the book is beautiful and it is truly an heirloom book to be handed down for generations.