Why Christmas Trees Aren't Perfect

Why Christmas Trees Aren't Perfect

4.44 of 5 stars 4.44  ·  rating details  ·  165 ratings  ·  24 reviews
Long, long ago, in a land far away, lived a perfect little tree named Small Pine. Small Pine hoped to maintain its perfect form and be selected by the Queen as her Christmas tree. But as the warmhearted little tree gave shelter to birds, rabbits and deer in the forest, its branches became damaged. Fortunately, the Queen had a different idea of perfection . . .
Hardcover, 29 pages
Published September 1st 1988 by Abingdon Press
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Kim
Written by the recently retired editor of "Guideposts" magazine, this a richly illustrated Advent/Christmas tale that will delight your child. Mild Christian themes make this accessible to all levels of faith and could even work for those who are of other faiths. The main theme is compassion and that translates to all people no matter what you believe in. It is a story about charity, thinking of others and being kind. This a great addition to any holiday collection, and will become a favorite of...more
Megan
Nov 29, 2009 Megan rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: anyone
Recommended to Megan by: Judy
My mom bought this book for my sisters and I when we were little girls, and it's a story I look forward to reading every year at Christmas. I love the sweet message of unconditional love that "small pine" shares with the creatures of the forest, as well as the seeing all the gorgeous illustrations by artist Elizabeth Miles.

Reading this sweet little book is one of my all-time favorite holiday traditions!
Brenda
This book is really a 4.5 star book. I have read this book to many groups of children. The story touches my heart everytime I read it. I do hope that some of the children do follow the guideline that is in this book. The guideline of NOT judging people by the way they look. Also to cherish all of God's creation. This book would make a great gift if you want to give a meaningful Christmas gift.
Lisa
This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.
Sarah
I would give this book 10 stars if I could. In my opinion, it should be on every Christian's "to read" list. A great story about serving our fellow men and the true spirit of Christmas. We read it last night as a family and all of the adults had tears in their eyes, and the children all said "ahhh" simultaneously.
Sasha
Perfectly illustrates the Spirit of Christmas, or Spirit of Christ. The last paragraph of the book: "For, as have many of us, the trees have learned that living for the sake of others makes us most beautiful in they eyes of God."
Tim Sheppard
I was totally surprised in a good way by this book. I just picked it up in the library and looked through it on impulse. The redemptive story and pictures made me check it out ad share it right away with family and friends.
Cynthia
This is the story of a forest of perfect Christmas trees. It is also a story of love, giving and service. If it isn't a part of your Christmas collection it should be.
Cheryl
Poignant and inspirational, this wonderful children's book tells a story of compassion and selflessness. Beautiful illustrations enhance the story.
Erika B.
A beautiful story about the legend of the Christmas tree. It has been and will always be one of my favorite reads around the holiday season!
Melissa
Absolutely no surprises here, but that doesn't mean this isn't a wonderful story for the season. Great Christmas book that doesn't focus on "gifts".
Emily
Bought this for my kids remembering that I loved it as an older child. Just as good as I remembered!
Molly Ricks
Very cute Christmas story. Both my boys 3 & 5, and myself liked it.
Alisa
Another of my favorite Christmas stories.
Amanda
A pretty good one, though not short and sweet. Maybe next year, he'll understand more...
Ellie
Dec 10, 2007 Ellie rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: those looking for a great Christmas read
One of my all-time favorite Christmas stories. This is a beautifully illustrated story about a small pine tree that offers shelter and food for the wildlife in the forest, sacrificing its "ideal" shape. It offers a heart-felt message that beauty comes from your generosity to others.
Amberly
A lovely story we read every year the night we put up the Christmas tree. A good reminder of giving & sacrifice and how that makes each one of us more beautiful.
Natalie
this is a book we had when i was growing up.
i absolutely love this book. cody and i started a tradition to read it on our christmas.
Kathryn
Such a wonderful story how the little tree in the forest helped the animals through a hard winter.
Rachael Anderson
My all-time favorite Christmas story that never fails to make me cry--in a good way.
Mykie
This is my favorite Christmas story. Everybody should read this story, it's amazing
Kersten
Another book from my childhood. The story is so fun, and the pictures are gorgeous!
Kathryn
Great Christmas book - another tear jerker.
Catherine
May 05, 2013 Catherine marked it as to-read-children
Lisa Morrow
Apr 27, 2013 Lisa Morrow marked it as to-read
Carolyn
Jan 20, 2013 Carolyn marked it as to-read
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