When Christmas Came

by Eileen Spinelli, Wayne Parmenter (Illustrator)

As snow drifts higher and higher, the pastor of a small country church worries that no one will attend Christmas Eve services, but soon an unusual congregation gathers and shares the spirit of the season.

Genres: Christmas, Picture Books, Childrens

32 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

About the author

Eileen Spinelli is an award-winning children's book author from southeastern Pennsylvania. She has written over 100 picture books and novels for children. Her husband is Jerry Spinelli, who also writes books for children.

Reviews

[SBC]

This was a lovely picture book written by Eileen Spinelli and illustrated by Wayne Parmenter. On a snowy night we are shown who comes to the church, and as a congregation gathers to sing Christmas carols, Christmas comes to them all. I particularly liked the last image of them all gathered around the pews with the warm light of candles in their hands, singing.

[Teri]

A minister wonders who is coming to Christmas Eve service. Throughout the book we see those coming, including some cute creatures. There is not a lot of text. The pictures are big and colorful and perfect for the younger set. Still can be appreciated by all. Very sweet!

[Kathryn]

Who, after the moth, cat and mouse can make it to church on Christmas Eve in the snow storm

[Libby]

Cute book about who shows up for a Christmas Eve service during a snowstorm. We especially liked the prominent place that the organist was given, although I wish there had been a choir rather than a "soloist." Will be most enjoyed by other church-goers.

[Sandybear76]

simple repeating text. great illustrations.