Under the Stars in Bethlehem: A Nativity Story for Every Family [Blackwood, Vincent] on Amazon.com. *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. Un
It's here!
Background: I am an atheist. I was raised Christian (Mormon), but have long since left religion. But I LOVE Christmas. LOVE IT! for the most part sharing my love of Christmas with my children had been easy, as most elements are at least secular on their face, but the nativity story was always a little trickier.
Now in general I still like much of the mythology surrounding Jesus and believe he serves as a fantastic example of kindness, selflessness, compassion, etc.. That was what I focused on when I was in the church and I still think many of those stories serve as great parables.
So, that's where I focused my attention when I started telling my young daughters about the Nativity.
That is what I've published here: "Under the Stars in Bethlehem" is a rhyming picture book that tells the story of the nativity in a way that celebrates the message of kindness, empathy, love, family, gratitude, and hope that makes the holiday season so special. It's written for all children, regardless of what religion, if any at all, they're raised in. It shares a beautiful kind holiday message without requiring devotion and without indoctrination. It's intended primarily for those outside the Christian faith, but would be no less welcome in a Christian home.
So, for anyone, but particularly non-christian folks looking for a way to share the nativity story with your children, I invite you to check out my new book!
Merry Christmas! Happy holidays!