Friday, November 30, 2012

PPBF: The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey


It's time now to review my favorite Christmas stories! I have many, but, unfortunately, most of the ones I own are out-of-print and unavailable in libraries. So, this month, I will present the ones you are most likely to find.


Here is one that is standing the test of time...



Author: Susan Wojciechowski
Illustrator: P.J. Lynch
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Date: 1995

Genre: Picture book for older children

Ages: 8 to Adult

Themes: Christmas, friendship, woodcarvers, woodcarving, determination, dealing with death, nativity

From the book flap: Jonathan Toomy is the best woodcarver in the valley. He keeps to himself, though, and never smiles or laughs. No one knows that a lace handkerchief, a tiny white blanket, and a portrait of the wife and child he's lost lie hidden in a drawer he never opens.
One day in early winter, the widow McDowell comes to call. Would Mr. Toomey carve a new crèche for her in time for Christmas? And would he allow her young son to watch while he carves it?
A quiet request leads to a joyful miracle, as the widow and her son gently warm the sad heart of Jonathan Toomey.



Why I like this book: The illustrations are gorgeous, it integrates the story of the first Christmas beautifully, and the character makes a 180 degree turnaround. It's a heartwarming story, which will not disappoint, and has been produced and performed as a play.


Activities for Children:


Nativity/General

http://kidslovelearning.blogspot.com/2008/12/nativity-activities.html
http://www.designdazzle.com/2011/11/make-your-own-childrens-nativity-set/

Soap carving

http://mommyme-thewonderyears.blogspot.com/2012/04/soap-carving-for-kids.html

Nativity plays: http://www.sunday-school-center.com/christmas-skits.html


And, for more great book ideas, categorized by subject for use by teachers, librarians, and parents, see Susanna Hill's Perfect Picture Book list...truly an amazing resource!






22 comments:

  1. Replies
    1. Yes, indeed, Sandi, it is. Such a bittersweet one, too!

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  2. Oh, I love this beautiful story. And the title is perfect. Will have to check it out. I'm a sucker for stories like this.

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    1. Yes, Patricia, I think everyone should have this book in their collection!

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  3. This sounds so lovely, Jarm! I really want to read it! Did you have any resources/activities to go with it? The cover art makes it look so warm and appealing.

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    1. I can't believe it, Susanna...I forgot to include activities!! I'm on a writer's retreat, but I will get to it ASAP. Thanks for the reminder...

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  4. Fan of Lynch! Didn't know about this one - thanks Jarm!

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    Replies
    1. Yes, I love the realistic quality of Lynch's illustrations, Julie!

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  5. This looks like a wonderful book for Christmas. Thank you for sharing it.

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    Replies
    1. Hope you have the opportunity to read it over the Christmas holidays. Thanks for stopping by!

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  6. Sounds like such a wonderful book! It reminds me somewhat of The Sandal Artist, illustrated by my dear friend, Lois.
    http://loisrosiosprague.com/Sandal/Default.aspx

    ~Debbie

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    Replies
    1. You are right, Debbie...they are very similar. I checked out her website. Seems like a similar story, too!

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  7. This looks like a truly beautiful book. I think that Candlewick Press tends to put out some really nice books. I've not seen this one before but will be looking for it. Thanks for sharing!

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    Replies
    1. You are right. And that is why it is still in print over seven years after it was published.

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  8. This does sound heartwarming. I hope my library has it. Thanks for the review.

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  9. Lovely. Just lovely. Thank you, Jarm!

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  10. Oooh, like Patricia, I am a sucker for stories like this. Love the depth and emotion. Gotta check this out. Thanks Jarm!

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    Replies
    1. Yes, it is a "must read" for Christmas. Thanks for stopping by, Diane!

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Journey into the Promised Land

Journey into the Promised Land
From Egypt to Israel