Around Christmas we think a lot about presents, but have you ever wondered why we give gifts? Learn about the life of Saint Nicholas and discover why he became known as one of the greatest giftgivers of all time. Told as a delightful poem, this colorfully illustrated children's book also includes tools to help parents engage in conversation about the content.
Presents the story of St. Nicholas, in the form of a fictional open letter, and explains the inspiration behind the Christmas tradition of Santa Claus, and the spirit of gift giving.
Snuggle up with little ones this Christmas season and read about the origin of St. Nicholas, the story of a man who spent his life secretly helping the poor all over the world, giving gifts on Christmas Eve to remind people of the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ. This captivating picture book about thefaith-based origin of St. Nicholas is illustrated by?New York Times bestselling illustrator Richard Cowdrey and written by Dandi Daley Mackall. The Legend of St. Nicholas: Is perfect for readers 4-8 who are curious about the origin of St. Nicholas or Santa Claus Celebrates the holiday season and teaches little ones about thejoy of giving to others and helping those in need Shows how countries celebrate Christmas traditions across the world Is a faith-based look at the Christmas holiday and giving or receiving gifts With beautiful illustrations and a heartwarming story,?The Legend of St. Nicholas?is a great family read for the Advent and Christmas season.
When two children appeal to Saint Nicholas to free their village from the heavy snow that is keeping everyone inside, he sends instead a mysterious parcel.
This is a comprehensive history of the world's midwinter gift-givers, showcasing the extreme diversity in their depictions as well as the many traits and functions these characters share. It tracks the evolution of these figures from the tribal priests who presided over winter solstice celebrations thousands of years before the birth of Christ, to Christian notables like St. Martin and St. Nicholas, to a variety of secular figures who emerged throughout Europe following the Protestant Reformation. Finally, it explains how the popularity of a poem about a "miniature sleigh" and "eight tiny reindeer" helped consolidate the diverse European gift-givers into an enduring tradition in which American children awake early on Christmas morning to see what Santa brought. Although the names, appearance, attire and gift-giving practices of the world's winter solstice gift-givers differ greatly, they are all recognizable as Santa, the personification of the Christmas and Midwinter festivals. Despite efforts to eliminate him by groups as diverse as the Puritans of seventeenth century New England, the Communist Party of the twentieth century Soviet Union and the government of Nazi Germany, Santa has survived and prospered, becoming one of the best known and most beloved figures in the world.
Combining a joyful poem from the much-celebrated poet Luci Shaw with playful cut-paper art, this delightful book helps us experience the goodness of God's gifts of hope and love. Meant for children and the adults who read with them, this colorfully illustrated children's book also includes tools to help parents engage in conversation about the content. Dynamic ebook with audio narration by the author.
"Look behind the legends and tales of Santa Claus to learn the true story of a steadfast, godly man who refused to deny Christ and then suffered for His sake. When Nicholas was a young boy, both of his parents died and he used his inheritance to help others. As a grown man, he became a leader in the church. He was later imprisoned under the Roman emperor Diocletian, who imprisoned church leaders in an effort to stop the spread of the gospel. Nicholas had to stand for truth, but that too, came with a price. However, it did not deter him from generously giving to those in need until his death"--Publisher's description.
Former secretary of education and New York Times bestselling author William Bennett blends his historical expertise with his gift for storytelling into a heartwarming book about the man who ultimately became known as Santa Claus. Beloved writer and speaker William Bennett brings the legendary Saint Nicholas to life in this fascinating and faith-affirming book that will change the way you think about Santa Claus and the meaning of Christmas. Bennett reflects on Saint Nicholas’s storied life, which has spanned seventeen centuries across Europe, Asia, and Africa, and reveals an inspiring tale of devotion to God and an example of eternal goodness. The True Saint Nicholas: Why He Matters to Christmas focuses on three aspects of Saint Nicholas—historical facts from his life, his legacy in the centuries following his death, and the legendary status that transformed his likeness into the present-day jolly, toy-bearing Santa Claus. The book vividly captures the heart and life of someone who lived long ago—and yet whose life remains an inspiration for everyone to aspire to a higher order of generosity, giving, and devotion to others. An instant classic by one of America’s most respected thinkers, The True Saint Nicholas is a memorable keepsake to be shared with family and friends every year to evoke the true spirit of Christmas.
If your child or grandchild has ever wondered where Santa fits in with the traditional Christmas story, now you can read them Santa's Birthday Gift. Finally, a book that ties two holiday traditions into one inspirational tale of wonder - as Santa brings gifts to baby Jesus. The cleverly-written, rhyming book reveals Santa's adventure from toymaker to star follower right into the heart of Bethlehem where he meets Baby Jesus in the manger. Delivering toys to a king is a touching experience for both Santa and readers alike, as they discover where the tradition began Santa makes a promise to Jesus to bring gifts to good boys and girls each year on Jesus' birthday. This delightful story is engaging and delivers meaningful lessons using recognizable nativity characters, and of course, Santa and Jesus.
