This charming tale of an overgrown pine always being passed by for Christmas, and what his woodland friends do to help him, is sure to become a Christmas classic. With delightful illustrations by wildlife artist Michael Monroe and enchanting text from Colleen Monroe, the birds, deer and squirrel of this story help make their special friend's wish come true.
Kristopher and Kristin Butler are so excited to venture out with their parents to cut down their first live Christmas tree. After looking at hundreds of trees, Kristin finally finds the right tree. It is green, not too tall, and has plenty of places to hang ornaments. But just as she asks her brother if he likes it too, the tree makes a surprising announcement. In this colorful childrens tale, a brother and sister who choose a stubborn Christmas tree are about to discover that someone in their family is harboring a big secret that will change everything.
It’s Christmastime in 1946, and all Addie wants is a pair of cowboy boots and a Christmas tree Ten-year-old Addie lives in Clear River, Nebraska, population fifteen hundred, with her stoic but loving father and quirky grandmother. Carla Mae is her neighbor and best friend in the fifth grade. Carla Mae’s house is different than Addie’s—she has five siblings and another on the way, while Addie is an only child. It’s the week before Christmas, and shopping lists are at the front of the girls’ minds. Addie’s house doesn’t have a tree—her dad says they are a waste of money, and they’ll be opening presents at Uncle Will’s anyway. Uncle Will has a tree, but to Addie, it doesn’t feel like Christmas without a tree of their own. Then she comes up with the perfect plan. Will it make this the best Christmas they’ve ever had, or will her father never forgive her?
A millennial rabbi explores why we’re reluctant to discuss antisemitism—and empowers us to fight against it Antisemitism is on the rise in America, in cities and rural areas, in red states and blue states, and in guises both subtle and terrifyingly overt. Rabbi Diana Fersko is used to having difficult conversations with members of her congregation about the issues they face—from the threat of violence to microaggressions and identity denial. In We Need to Talk About Antisemitism, she gives all of us the ultimate guide to modern antisemitism in its many forms. Exploring topics like vile myths about Jewish people and the intersection of antisemitism with other forms of discrimination, We Need to Talk About Antisemitism gives readers the tools they need to understand the state of antisemitism today. Fersko shows Jews and non-Jews alike how to speak up and come together, spreading a message of solidarity and hope. This is a timely read for anyone passionate about fighting for social justice.
As we struggle to survive the chaos and confusion of the 21st century, we must each reach our own truth and perspective on life. We must gain knowledge and the wisdom to put it to good use. We want to be accepted, to be loved, to feel free to be what we are, and in so doing we strive to be “normal,” even if it doesn’t fit our personal agenda. But by being kind, respectful, and tolerant, one by one, we can all make a difference. It Is Normal to Be Normal is an unpretentious yet powerful philosophy that strives to make sense out of this tumultuous world!
“Dad, there are things about my childhood I’d like to know.” “I don’t want to talk about it. It would only hurt your mother.” “But Dad, you’re the only one who can tell me.” “I don’t want to talk about it. It would only hurt your mother.” Secrets. Lies. Silences. Stories told by parents and their families to protect themselves. A father who defends his wife despite her damage to their daughter’s health and welfare. A mother, shielded by her husband, who perpetuates murderous acts of violence against the daughter, and keeps secret her husband’s sexual “play” with the young girl. And yet ... Nancy King, determined to learn the truth of her childhood and the heartbreaking effects it has had on her adult life, uncovers the secrets. Sees through the lies. Breaks the silence. Empowered by the stories she told herself as a child, she learns to use stories as part of her work as a university professor teaching theater, drama, world literature, and creative expression. Gradually, with the help of body work and therapy, she finds her voice. Says no to abuse and abusers. Reclaims her self and life. Writes a memoir. She climbs mountains. Weaves tapestries. Writes books. Makes friends. Creates a meaningful life. This is her story.
"Don't Make Me Come Up There!" is filled with inspirational and hilarious true-life stories and reflections written by a very human mom. The 52 reflections encourage moms to revel in the everyday beauty of their lives and grow closer to God through it all.
About the Book Enter the world of David J. Sherman, a home improvement center employee who’s had his share of challenging customers. His outlook on life is always positive and humorous, which is why he’s able to take customer difficulties, insults, and discourtesy and turn them into a series of laugh-out-loud stories that are sure to change the way you think about top-notch customer service! About the Author David J. Sherman is a lover of rock music, dancing, and keeping people laughing. He’s always looking forward to the next experience in life and enjoys inspiring others to do the same. David hopes people remember that every single soul on this planet has a journey and it is different for every single soul.
