La Navidad es un regalo de Dios / God Gave Us Christmas: Libros para niños

God Gave Us

by Lisa Tawn Bergren, David Hohn (Illustrator)

Mientras el peque�o cachorro y su familia se preparan para celebrar el d�a m�s especial del a�o, el curioso oso polar comienza a preguntarse...

�Qui�n invent� la Navidad?

La respuesta de mam� s�lo lleva a m�s preguntas como: �"Es Dios m�s importante que Santa"?, as� que ella y el peque�o cachorro encabezan una expedici�n polar para encontrar a Dios y ver c�mo les di� la Navidad.

En el camino, encuentran se�ales de que Dios est� trabajando a su alrededor.

A trav�s de la suave orientaci�n de mam�, el peque�o cachorro se entera de la primera navidad y descubre que...

Jes�s es el mejor regalo para todos.

ENGLISH DESCRIPTION

As Little Cub and her family prepare to celebrate the most special day of the year, the curious young polar bear begins to wonder...

"Who invented Christmas?"

Mama's answer only leads to more questions like "Is God more important than Santa?" So she and Little Cub head off on a polar expedition to find God and to see how he gave them Christmas. Along the way, they find signs that God is at work all around them. Through Mama's gentle guidance, Little Cub learns about the very first Christmas and discovers that...

Jesus is the best present of all.

This enchanting tale provides the perfect opportunity to help young children celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and to discover how very much God loves them.

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

40 pages, Hardcover

First published October 10, 2006

About the author

About

Lisa Tawn Bergren is the best-selling, award-winning author of over 60 books, with more than 4.5 million copies sold. She recently released The Sugar Baron's Daughters Series (KETURAH, VERITY and SELAH), and recently finished a teen series called Remnants (SEASON OF WONDER, SEASON OF FIRE, and SEASON OF GLORY). She's also written the River of Time Series (WATERFALL, CASCADE, TORRENT, BOURNE & TRIBUTARY, DELUGE) and The Grand Tour Series (GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS, GRAVE CONSEQUENCES, GLITTERING PROMISES), time-slip romance duology called River of Time: California (THREE WISHES and FOUR WINDS), and some contemporary romances (ONCE UPON A MONTANA SUMMER and ONCE UPON AN IRISH SUMMER are the newest releases).

Lisa’s time is split between managing home base, writing, consulting and helping Tim with his business. Her husband Tim is a sculptor of ducks-out-of-fenceposts (RMRustic.com), graphic designer and musician. They have three big kids–Olivia (who just got married), Emma (who is about to get married) and Jack (who is a junior in high school).

The Bergrens make their home in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Reviews

[Rachel (BAVR) · Rating 3 out of 5]

The illustrations are adorable, but the story came across as a little preachy to me. Yes, I know the book is called God Gave Us Christmas, but the repetition got to be a little much. To be honest, I think I would have enjoyed reading the Nativity Story more - at least stuff happens in that. Baby Raptor tore the title page in half. I tried to preserve the page by putting it back in the book, but he continued to tear it out until I finally gave in and threw the half-page away. I'm still not sure what this means other than that Baby Raptor is hazardous to books. He throws my Avons in the litter box all the time. D:

[Beth Brekke · Rating 3 out of 5]

I picked up this children's book at a library sale--didn't realize I had already entered it as read, but I just read it again. I previously rated it 3 stars and the second reading did not change my mind. While it is a cute book, I guess it's not too memorable. I think there would be better ways and better books to present the true Christmas story to children. I also think the same concept this story was trying for could have been done much better. The illustrations are very nice but they don't always seem relevant to the written words. While it's not my favorite, any book that presents Christianity to children is still worth reading.

[Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading this story to my 1 year 9 month old son and he sat through the entire story. He is like his dad, because he loves his stories. Not only was the actual story very well told, but the illustrations are fantastic. Having my son learn the true meaning of Christmas is very important to me, and this was a great story that he can grow with.

[Darlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very sweet story about a bear cub questioning about Santa Claus and his Mama teaching him the true meaning of Christmas

[♥♣Mary♦♠ If She So Pleases · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I wanted to find a "perfect book," I'd probably write my own. This is a sweet tale that shows that Christmas is about God, while not dissing Santa who is based on a bishop.

I like how different it is from religious book because it has polar bears and not humans. I'm not much of an animal picture books lover but this one is nice.

[Rebecca Trump · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this sweet, moving book about Jesus and how God is everywhere and gives us Christmas. I actually teared up from its beautiful message.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved everything about this and would recommend it to anyone. 🩷

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little cheesy at points, but a sweet little story about a polar bear cub trying to understand the importance of Christmas.

[Carolyn Feltus-atkinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

So sweet - a lovely telling of the meaning of Christmas. It made me cry just a little bit.

[Lily Luck · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books!

[Luisa Knight · Rating 1 out of 5]

There are better books out there, explaining Christianity and Christmas. Check out my childrens-holiday shelf to see what I recommend, where the gospel is presented more biblically and Santa Claus is not thought of as a real person.

**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!

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[Olivia Gregory · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the message of this book and that it doesn't completely diss Santa. It was what I was looking for to teach my girls about God and Christmas and how really that is more important than Santa. We still celebrate Santa and this book makes sure not to destroy the idea of Santa and just reminds the children that while Santa is great, God is Christmas.

I gave it 4 stars instead of five because I felt a few pages could have been removed and the story would be the same.

[Nancy Luebke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this Christian Children's book on Christmas. I received this as part of a gift and I voluntarily chose to review it. I've given it a 5* rating. I liked how this author showed gifts of God to children. I must say, I'm a fan of this author in how she answers many children's questions.These can build a foundation that parents can build on.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ellie read this book to us. She loves this book and so do I. Jacob rated 3 stars.

There is nothing better than curling up on the couch and having your daughter read to you about God!

[Danette · Rating 3 out of 5]

12/25/19 Read with Julia, Riley, & Caleb
11/29/20 Read with my class
11/30/20 Read with Julia
12/7/21 Read with Naomi and Julia

[Laura Lane · Rating 3 out of 5]

Every year our family gets a new Christmas book. Usually it's a new picture book, never mind that my oldest is 21 and my youngest is 11! We're just not thinking about babies growing up right now. ~smile~ I always wrap them up in Christmas paper and let one of the children or Poppa open the book. Although I've already given a book to the family for this year, I decided to review this book, God Gave Us Christmas, because Amy was interested in it. I thought, why not two books?



This is an adorable little book about learning what Christmas is, why Christmas is, and who Christmas is all about. The little bear begins thinking that maybe it's Santa Claus that gives us Christmas, but momma bear sets him straight. It's all about God. Little bear wants to find Santa. momma bear takes him to find God, because he's everywhere. Little Cub learns of Jesus.



I like that this book points to Jesus, just like all of nature does. It seemed a little funny to me to have bears talk about Jesus' birth, but they showed real people celebrating at church. My eleven year old daughter really liked it. I asked her if we could give it away, after all, it's intended for younger children, maybe up to about second or third grade. She insisted we keep it. So, keep it we shall and enjoy it yearly until she decides she's too grown up. The bright, colorful, illustrations will appeal to young children. I can imagine reading it to my grandlittles someday.






"I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review."

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

[Dawn De Wulf · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a Grammy and children's author, I'm drawn to books that point young hearts toward the real story of Christmas. "God Gave Us Christmas" by Lisa Tawn Bergren accomplishes this beautifully through the beloved character of Mama Polar Bear.
The premise is lovely - Mama Bear takes Little Cub on a search for God, using His magnificent creation to point toward the ultimate gift of Christmas: Jesus. Bergren skillfully weaves together the wonder of the natural world with the gospel message, helping children understand that Christmas isn't about presents under the tree, but about God's incredible love for us.
David Hohn's illustrations are vibrant and captivating. The colorful artwork draws readers into each scene, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for the Christmas season.
My one hesitation is that the text is quite word-heavy for the youngest readers. Each page contains substantial text that might challenge attention spans for children on the younger end of the age range. This would work wonderfully as a read-aloud for families with slightly older preschoolers and early elementary children, but parents of toddlers may find themselves paraphrasing to keep little ones engaged.
That said, the message is powerful and the presentation is beautiful. This book is a meaningful addition to any family's Christmas collection and a gentle reminder of why we celebrate this special season.
Thanks #PRHChristian @waterbrookmultomahkids @prhchristian for the complimentary review copy of this book!

[Kathryn Sneed · Rating 5 out of 5]

God Gave Us Christmas is one of the sweetest books I’ve ever read! It’s about a journey that mama bear and little bear take to find God. In the quest to find God, mama bear also teaches little bear about Christmas and how it came to be.

The bears see the northern lights and mama tells little bear how this is God and His handiwork. They see many more things on their journey and she explains how each thing represents God and how He is everywhere with us. Each thing that they see helps mama bear explain about God and how He brought us Christmas.

The book continues with more explanation of God and Christmas and towards the end, little bear asks if Jesus came for the mean and grumpy people too. Mama bear’s reply is perfect, “Jesus is a present for everyone, grumpy or happy, mean or kind. God gave us all Christmas.”

I just loved the way that this book not only explains how God is everywhere and always with us but also how Christmas came to be. It is brought down to a child’s level and helped my son understand better than any way I could have explained or taught him. This book is special and will be one we read at Christmas time each year.

[Rose Rosetree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Given that more than one million copies of this book have been sold, clearly Lisa Tawn Bergren knows her audience and has delivered just what they like.

Mama shows God to Little Cub in different versions, always explaining as she goes, expressions of God such as a beautiful lake and also a tiny flower.

That's not how I would teach my child about God, or taught my child. Nor does it suit me at all to say that a beautiful lake is God.

But I do applaud the author's bravery in sharing her personal beliefs with the world, and managing to find an expression that has resonated with so many others (if not with me).

FIVE STARS

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a sweet little book! I loved how Mama Bear took the time to teach her cub about what was truly important, and how she (Little Cub) could find God in all of His creation. I loved how the Gospel message was taught in a clear, concise way so that children will understand. The illustrations were a perfect compliment to this storybook, and I will definitely be checking out more of the 'God Gave Us' series!

[Elizabeth Bancroft · Rating 4 out of 5]

God Gave Us Christmas by Lisa Tawn Bergen, art by David Hon, is a story about a polar bear named Little Cub who wonders who invented Christmas; she thought it was Santa. Her mother tells her God gave them Christmas. She and Little Cub go on a journey to find God and to see how God gave Christmas to them. The illustrations were bright, beautiful and colorful. I think this story will be a great opportunity to teach children the true meaning of Christmas.

[W.A. Ashes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have no idea where this book came from. It just appeared in my home. The illustrations in here are seriously the cutest and the color pallet is relaxing. This is technically a Christian, Christmas book, but the way it goes about talking about God is different than other books. God is the light in the skin, falling ice, and warm hugs...God Gave us Christmas talks about both Santa and Jesus and confronts the question all Christian raised kids have, "How is Christmas about both?"

[Sandie · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best stories I've read in a long time. I originally picked up this book as a gift for my great granddaughter because we love polar bears. But, after reading it I wanted to keep it for myself to add to the Children's section of my library (we're both getting one). It's so adorable and simply written that a child can easily understand that God is definitely more important at Christmas than Santa Claus. Very clever and well written!

[Ashley Jacobson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh. It was a little weird. I love religious holiday books, but this was too forced. I do like the message that Christmas is about Christ, not Santa, but they keep saying (obviously) “God have us Christmas” and it was awkward. Then they go on a journey to find God, who you can apparently find because He is everywhere. It just didn’t make sense and didn’t flow. Oh well.

[Sarah Poling · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's fine. It will appeal to young child Polar Bear obsessed. Or has read other books in the series. The unique aspect is that this book tells of how God is all around us. As they discuss the importance of God- more important than Santa.

Some families will not appreciate the mention of Santa, others will find that it helps take away his value and focus on God.

[Sandra Strange · Rating 2 out of 5]

This picture book has a good purpose: to teach that God gave everyone Christmas, and that He manifests himself in the miraculous nature around us, but it stays vague, sweet, but with no real story, not even the original story, to prove its point.

[Natasha · Rating 2 out of 5]

Definitely not my favorite Christmas picture book, because I'm not sure I want to tell my kids that God "gave"us Christmas. He sent us Jesus, but that's different. Man invented Christmas and there's actually quite a lot about the holiday that has nothing to do with God.

[Alana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this. No, it's not the traditional manger story and scripture, but it gives an of the REASONS for the manger and the baby and gets to the heart of the matter. Beautifully illustrated as well.

[Kirsten]

Used 2022. N really liked this one, but I felt like there were a lot of missed opportunities when it came to connecting creation with Christmas and the gospel. It was fine, but not nearly as good as God Gave Us Prayer or God Gave Us the Bible.

[Anthony · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Little Cub asked Mama Bear, who invented Christmas, Mama Bear treats the question as a teachable moment to share with Little Cub the wonders of God's creations and help Little Cub to understand that God gave the world Christmas.