2 Christmas Books Review + Giveaway

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ByJessica Lieb

Can you believe it’s already November? Christmas decorations have already been set up in department stores and I still haven’t thrown away the rotting jack-o-lantern on my front porch. Little-by-little I’m starting to get in the Christmas spirit. In fact just this week I read two great Christmas stories that tempted me to break out the Christmas decorations. 

 

First I read The Nutcracker and the Mouse King. I’ve actually never read this story even though it was written in 1816. I was familiar with the story of The Nutcracker from the ballet adaptation but never actually read the whole story. Well I finally read The Nutcracker and the Mouse King and it is delightful. How could I have missed this timeless story. What I liked about this particular book is Gail De Marcken’s artwork that beautifully illustrates E.T.A. Hoffmann’s classic. It is quiet a lengthy story so I suggest spreading it out over a couple of readings for the kids.

 



Secondly, I read The Christmas Magic by Lauren Thompson and illlustrated by Jon J Muth. I found this book to be a much easier read as it can be finished in one sitting. The Story is simple yet wonderfully captures that “magic” that’s in the air before Christmas. The art of Jon J Muth accents the simplistic and unique nature of the story perfectly.

 
SYNOPSIS
THE NUTCRACKER AND THE MOUSE KING
On Christmas Eve, Godfather Drosselmeier has arrived with gifts of marvel and enchantment for his young godchildren.  Goddaughter Marie falls in love a bewitching nutcracker doll and claims him as her own.  Yet when the clock strikes midnight, something terribly amazing happens to Godfather’s handcrafted toys…they come alive.  Marie is swept off her feet on an incredible journey with the Nutcracker in this astonishing classic story by E.T.A. Hoffman.  Critically acclaimed artist Gail de Marcken’s stunning illustrations bring this spellbinding tale to life.
 
THE CHRISTMAS MAGIC
Far, far North, when the nights are longest and the stars shine brightest, Santa begins to prepare for his big night of giving. He gathers his reindeer, feeds them parsnips and berries, and polishes his bells and his sled. Then lovingly, he chooses toys for every child in the world. For Santa loves them all, and he knows what each child at heart wants most. Then, with the thrum of magic that makes reindeer fly, he spreads the Christmas joy and warmth throughout the world–as he always has — and always will until the end of time.  From best-selling author Lauren Thomas, and Caldecott Honor Artist Jon J Muth

 

 

 
The featured products were provided to me free of charge by Scholastic Book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced by the company.
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Jessica is an experienced NC-based travel agent who specializes in family travel. She helps families plan memorable trips to Disney, Universal, All-Inclusive Resorts, Cruises, and International trips. She is responsible for B Honest Media’s editorial direction and growth. She has covered parenting for over 13 years, focusing on product reviews and recommendations, travel, and parenting tips.

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