Everyone loves the Christmas poem, ʼTwas the Night Before Christmas, but its emphasis on Santa’s annual visit neglects the true story of Christmas: the birth of Jesus. That omission has been corrected with the publication of The First Christmas Night, by Keith Christopher, a beautiful children’s picture book published by Ideals Children’s Books. The First Christmas Night uses the same poetic structure of ʼTwas the Night Before Christmas, but substitutes the story of Jesus’ birth, as told in the Bible.
ʼTwas the very first Christmas,When all through the townNot a creature was stirring—There was not a sound.
Thus begins the story as Mary and Joseph arrive at the inn, welcome baby Jesus in the stable, and greet the shepherds and wise men. The words are accompanied by gorgeous, realistic illustrations created by Christine Kornacki.
This year, when you do your annual reading of the wonderful poem, ʼTwas the Night Before Christmas, I suggest you follow it up with a reading of The First Christmas Night. Bring the message to your children that Christmas is both the fun of Santa’s visit and gift-giving, but also the celebration of a very special birth ~ the greatest gift we have ever received.
Visit Ideals Books to learn more about The First Christmas Night, by Keith Christopher.
About the author: Keith Christopher is an award-winning composer, arranger, lyricist, and author, and his musical talent is evident in the lyrical verses of The First Christmas Night. In addition to writing and producing, Keith is on the faculty at the Blair School of Music of Vanderbilt University in Nashville. He lives in Hendersonville, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.
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