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Christmas
To read additional reviews on these items or for pricing information, just click on any book cover. There's no obligation to buy. Please enjoy my personal comments below.
The World of Narnia Advent Calendar, by C.S. Lewis, illustrated by Mary Collier (1998, HarperCollins).
Amazon.com can ship this item within 24 hours. We pre-ordered our copy, and it's beautiful! Untie the front ribbon and open the wardrobe doors to enter the wonderland of Narnia based on the classic books by C.S. Lewis. Open hidden tabs each day in your countdown to Christmas to reveal characters or scenes from Lewis' books. Made out of sturdy 1/4" thick book-board covered with glossy high-quality paper, this item will stand easily on a mantle or table. This is already one of my family's favorites!
The Real 12 Days of Christmas by Helen Haidle, illustrated by Celeste Henriquez (1998, Multnomah Publishers Inc.).
A beautiful gift item, this book tells the real story behind the familiar "Twelve Days of Christmas" song, written by my friend, Helen Haidle, author of several books for children and families.
A Cup of Christmas Tea by Tom Hegg, illustrated by Warren Hanson (1989, Waldman House Press).
This book tells the simple story of a man who reluctantly visits his great aunt during the holidays and is reminded that Christmas is not about the rush and bother, but about relationships. Tom Hegg's beautiful poetic rhyme enhances the story's magical quality. You can't read this book without feeling moved. The superb cover design and touching watercolor illustrations makes this book a beautiful gift and keepsake.
Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale, by Angela Elwell Hunt, illustrated by Tim Jonke (1989, Lion Publishing).
This beautifully illustrated book tells the tale of three trees who dream of great futures, and how those dreams appear dashed until the near the end, when the trees each realize how they were used in the life of the Messiah. The story of Christ--His birth (wooden manger), life (time with the disciples in a wooden boat) and death (on a wooden cross)--is a clear message of the gospel, told from a refreshingly new perspective. An excellent Christmas gift book!
A Charlie Brown Christmas VHS video, starring the Peanuts Gang, directed by Bill Melendez (1965, VHS, color, HiFi Sound, NTSC format for use in US and Canada only).
This television classic can be yours on video, and makes a great gift for someone you love. The best scene in the movie is Linus' quiet but moving recitation of Luke 2, the birth of Jesus--our Real Reason for the Season.
A Christmas Story VHS video, starring Peter Billingsley as "Ralphie" and Darrin McGavin, written and narrated by Jean Shepherd. (1984, VHS color, NTSC format for use in US and Canada only).
Now a holiday classic, this movie superbly explores childhood joys and troubles, with appeal for all ages. Set in snowy Indiana around the 1940's, the story captures the innocence of childhood at Christmastime and delivers a touching, subtle message about family relationships. It's one of our absolute favorites!
It's A Wonderful Life VHS video, starring James Stewart and Donna Reed, directed by Frank Capra. (1946, VHS black & white, NTSC format for use in US and Canada only).
It's hard to believe that some people have not yet seen this very special classic, and now it's difficult to catch on television since a challenge to the copyright ownership (as I understand). This movie graphically shows how one individual life, that of character George Bailey, impacts those around him. This is a very special movie.
For more information or to order any of these items, click on the book covers above. To search Amazon.com for other good gift ideas, try the search feature.
Kimn Swenson Gollnick send email
Updated August 13, 2001
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