The Sparkle Box by Jill Hardie, Book review and GIVEAWAY

• Publisher: Ideals Children's Books
•  English Language edition (October 1, 2012)
• ISBN-13: 978-0824956479

Familiar with the story and just want to enter the 

GIVEAWAY? 

Scroll down for more information!

Synopsis:

The moving story of an uncommon gift and how giving to others shows a little boy the true meaning of Christmas.

Sam is so excited about Christmas! He's thinking about his Christmas list, anticipating holiday parties, and puzzling over one very mysterious gift -- a sparkly box sitting on the mantel above the fireplace. In the midst of the festivities, Sam and his family participate in various acts of kindness to others. 

On Christmas morning, when Sam finally opens the Sparkle Box, he finds only slips of paper that record the family's good deeds. Sam's parents explain that the things that they've been doing for others are, in fact, a gift for Jesus -- for Jesus said that whatever we do for the least of these, we do for Him. 

This heartfelt story will inspire readers to adopt this faith-centered tradition in their own homes. 

Ages 4-8.

Includes a glitter-coated fold-out Sparkle Box!

Here are my thoughts:


Beautifully illustrated by talented Christine Kornacki (Remember The First Christmas Night?) The Sparkle Box is a marvelous story to teach little ones (and old ones) the true meaning of Christmas! 

In this heartfelt message storyteller Jill Hardie brings us a delightful story sure to become a tradition in this upcoming Holiday Season.

Beginning with the message: "You are the light of the world -- Make it sparkle!", this book includes a pop up sparkle box for young readers to fill in with little slips of papers highlighting their 'gifts' as they share with others in His name!

The unfolding story focuses on random acts of kindness, what we can give instead of what we receive thus allowing even the smallest child of understanding the joy involved in helping others.

Be ready though for a lot of questions arising from the story such as being homeless and hungry. Each unique illustration and the accompanying wording will bring a new subject to discuss with your family!

A book to treasure and rediscover year after year!
5 Stars!!

About the Author and the illustrator:

Jill Hardie is a writer and marketing professional with a great deal of enthusiasm for the Sparkle Box concept. Jill's family started their tradition of giving a gift to Jesus about six years ago; now, the Sparkle Box is the gift they most anticipate opening each year.

More can be found on her website (HERE)

Inspired by painters such as Norman Rockwell and Maxfield Parrish, illustrator Christine Kornacki was classically trained as a realistic oil painter. She spends her days painting in her studio, which adjoins a charming cafe. 

Find out more about this talented illustrator on her website (HERE)

AND NOW FOR THE GIVEAWAY!

I would love to give a copy of this beautiful story to one lucky winner just in time for Christmas!

Simply place a comment on this post and I will add your name in the hat!

(No need to follow, 'like me', be on Facebook or Twitter...) Giving should never come with conditions!

Giveaway open till 6 December 2013 (I chose SinterKlaas, what better day?!) until Midnight!

Giveaway opened to USA/CANADA only, apologies!

Winner chosen by Random.org and contacted via email for confirmation (and to obtain mailing address of course so be sure to include it in a safe format!)

Best wishes to one and all!

Note to Readers: 

This review was not requested and  reflects my opinion only!