{Review} The First Christmas Night by Keith Christopher

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{Review}

Are you looking to add to your holiday book collection? I know I always love to find new ones to add. In the past I've even wrapped up one to open each night before Christmas to read. It makes for a fun advent calendar activity as well.

Ideals Children's Books ($16.99) has just released a new Christmas story called The First Christmas Night. It's written in rhyming verse reminiscent of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. However, it tells the story of Christ's birth from the time Mary & Joseph arrive in Bethlehem until the Wise Men arrive.

’Twas the very first Christmas when all through the town

not a creature was stirring—there was not a sound.

The moon shining bright in the heavens so high

gave the look of midday to the Bethlehem sky.

The animals were nestled in warm, cozy places

with looks of contentment on each of their faces.

About the Author

Keith Christopher is a composer, arranger, orchestrator, and educator, and he has served as editor and producer for several major music publishers. In addition to writing and studio producing, Keith served on the faculty at the Blair School of Music of Vanderbilt University in Nashville. He lives in Hendersonville, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

The illustrations are phenomenal - almost photo-like. I found myself stopping often just to absorb all that was included in each drawing. The biblical account of the story is also included at the back of the book.

About the Illustrator  At a very early age,Christine Kornacki developed a love for painting and bringing stories to life. After receiving a BFA in illustration from the University of Hartford, her dreams of illustrating children's books began to take shape, including illustrating the best-selling The Sparkle Boxfor Ideal's Children's Books. Christine's recent work also includes illustrating the six-book series for the American Girl historical doll characters Marie-Grace and Cecile.  She spends her days painting in her studio, which adjoins a charming cafe in New Haven, Connecticut.

While the book is geared for ages 4-8 but I would think all ages would enjoy it. I know that I certainly did. This will be treasured here for many years to come.