The First Christmas Night by Keith Christopher, Book review and GIVEAWAY

• Publisher: Ideals Children's Books, an imprint of Ideals Publications (October 1, 2013)
• ISBN-13: 978-0824956530
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Synopsis:

About The First Christmas Night 

The First Christmas Night is a beautiful retelling of the birth of Jesus on that joyous night in Bethlehem so long ago.

The poem begins with the arrival of Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem and winds though Christ’s birth, the angels’ appearance to the shepherds, and the visit by the Wise Men. 

The simple, yet elegant, verses will appeal to little ones and are accompanied by the rich acrylic illustrations of Christine Kornacki:

’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.

Here are my thoughts:

The outstanding collaboration of author Keith Christopher and illustrator Christine Kornacki has produced one of the best books of the year! 
This one is a keeper Folks, and sure to delight children and parents everywhere!

Not unlike the well known poem 'Twas the Night before Christmas'  written by Clement Clarke Moore, The First Christmas Night brings us all the warmth of the Season by reminding us of that first Christmas long ago. 
What better way to introduce children to the real Christmas than retelling them this 2000 year old story? 

This large 32 page hardback copy is simply stunning with its illustrations and the journey of Mary and Joseph and the birth of our Saviour as told in this version, will remain with little ones as one of the most beautiful story ever told!

Included at the end of the book is the biblical story of the First Christmas as written in Luke's Gospel, 2:1, 4-16, 20 and Matthew 2:1-2, 9B-11 for an excellent reference!

5 Stars!!

Note to Readers: # 3 on my list of Christmas gifts list!

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 is on the faculty at the Blair School of Music of Vanderbilt University in Nashville.

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 Box for 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. 

Note to Readers: Christine is also the illustrator for the well known book 'The Sparkle Box' (to be reviewed shortly here as well!)

Who is it for?

Kids ages 4-8 - The rhyming language can help them develop verbal language skills and learn to read

Family story time during the holidays

Children's Ministers and Sunday school teachers
Christmas carolers could set it to a tune!

I always think the best things to come are the last ones! So here it goes:

Thanks to the generosity of the author/illustrator and FLYBY PROMOTIONS I have a wonderful opportunity for one lucky reader to get their own copy!
All you have to do is place a comment on this post and include a contact email (such as for example):

123format[at]yahoo[period]com

Giveaway open to USA and Canada only. 
Dateline to enter: 23 November 2013 at midnight!
Winner chosen by Random.org and Winner's name posted on this blog. 
A confirmation will be send via email. 

This is a wonderful book you will want to share with others so be sure to enter!!

I received a copy of this title from FLYBY PROMOTIONS as part of their blogger review program.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.