The Christmas Story

by Carol Heyer

Beautifully written Bible-based text with rich illustrations. Encourages children to remember the true meaning of Christmas.

Genres: Christmas, Picture Books, Childrens, Christian, Holiday

32 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1995

Reviews

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

The illustrations were quite nice. I liked how the beginning and end tied into why we celebrate Christmas with gifts, etc. It was kind of different to read the scriptural Christmas story in a more narrative form, but good for children to get the basic story.

[E & E’s Mama · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the most complete nativity picture book I’ve read to Elliot. It’s long but beautifully illustrated with realistic paintings, which helped keep Elliot attentive. It starts with the angel visiting Mary to an angel warning Joseph in a dream to escape to Egypt after Herod decreed all baby boys be murdered. It ends with a short synopsis of Jesus’ ministry and his death to save us all. Read at Nana's house

Read-aloud recommendation: preschool and up.

[Christie-anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

The intro and outro pages are nice, explaining concisely why Christians celebrate the birth of Christ on Christmas. The writing is an interesting mix between quickly and simply relaying the story and dipping into traditional biblical wording of the story. The illustrations make some interesting choices of foreground and background. Overall impression was so-so.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely beautiful illustration with a clear, accurate, and interesting retelling of the Christmas story.

[Keshia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was a really beautiful retelling of the birth of Jesus. The illustrations are just gorgeous!

[Joy Gerbode · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great edition of THE Christmas story, with wonderful illustrations!

In this re-read, December 2020, the thing that struck me was how true to the Scripture this version of the story is, while still being written in words for young children to understand.

[Tanya Wadley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This would be another 3 1/2 if I could give it, mostly because the illustrations aren't my favorite. But this book is a sweet retelling of the Christmas Story and why we give gifts at Christmas tim.

[Ruth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautiful illustrations. One of the most comprehensive narrations of the Christmas story, from the Annunciation through Simon and Anna in the temple.

A bit long for my five year old's attention.