Book Review: My First Read and Learn Countdown to Christmas

By now, most people who are going to do some type of advent calendar countdown have already chosen what they want.  But just in case you haven't, I must suggest one of my favorite kids' books...

My First Read and Learn Countdown to Christmas
By Dr. Mary Manz Simon
Illustrated by Siobhan Harrison
Published by: Scholastic

I came upon this book by happenstance about three years ago at a T.J. Maxx where I paid $6.99 for it.  The retail price reads $9.99.  It is a board book and very durable.  It's most suitable for preschoolers but in addition to the Luke 2 Christmas devotional we're doing at night, I may try to fit this in during the morning for one last year.  I just love the simplicity of it and the illustrations.  It is something that takes five minutes to do but makes a big difference in starting your children's day off on the right foot.  It also adds to the excitement of the season and brings a good focus to what it is we're all so excited about anyway.

Each day takes up a two page spread in which the first page reads a little summary story and gives something fun to do, like "Draw a picture of an angel...".  The second page is a prayer and a bible verse.  December 1 instructs you to make a paper chain with 25 links so after you read each day, you can take off a link, as well.