Rocking Horse Christmas
About:
Rocking Horse Christmas
By Mary Pope Osborne
The first time I saw Rocking Horse Christmas was at a book fair I was holding in my school library. The beautiful cover was outstanding. With its old-fashioned rocking horse and Santa and his elves busy at work, the cover gave a glimpse of the wonderful paintings inside – Ned Bittinger is the artist! The author’s name also caught my eye – Mary Pope Osborne is best known for other impressive children’s books including the highly popular Magic Tree House series for young novel readers. On closer examination, she met, even surpassed my expectations.
My first impressions were soon reinforced…a young family came to the book fair, excited and intent on some serious shopping. Eventually the dad sought out my rocking chair off to the side where he was in short order joined by his youngest daughter for a story. I offered them a copy of Rocking Horse Christmas to preview for the library. When the mom and older daughter had settled on their purchases, all four consulted again and approached my desk to pay. As I totalled everything, the dad passed me Rocking Horse Christmas to add in. I assured him that he wasn’t obligated to buy the book - He smiled and quietly responded “Oh yes, we want this book!” His eyes were a bit wet.
Indeed, inspired by the rediscovery of a favorite childhood doll in her mother’s attic, the author has created a moving story of this toy and “his boy”, a memorable story that will resonate with readers of all ages, a story destined to become a classic Christmas story.
ISBN:9780590929554
Mrs. Button's Bookshelf:
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A Note From Mrs. Buttons...
Over the years I have immensely enjoyed many wonderful stories with children at my work and at home. I am pleased to have the opportunity to share here some of the favorites from my bookshelf. Most of my reading/gift recommendations will be for books still readily available; from time to time, however, I will highlight a "backyard treasure" - a book that should be snapped up should you have the great good luck to see it in a yard sale!
I, by the way, concur with C. S. Lewis and George MacDonald that a "good children's book" is one that can be enjoyed at age three or fifty-three.
