The Robin's First Christmas

The Robin's First Christmas

Written and Illustrated by Susanne T. Schroder

The Robin's First Christmas is an adorable story that pulls at your heart strings while relaying the message of God's love. Having read the previous book in the series of Unlikely Heroes, "The Donkey's First Christmas" and immediately loved it, I was excited to have a chance to read this book, and I was not disappointed. The Robin's version of the first Christmas is just as sweet and entertaining, an instant classic at our house.

The little Robin loved to sing, but was told he was not special or good enough over and over, (he stammers, though that fact is not directly pointed out as such) so he decided to remain silent, believing that truth spoken over him. It was not until a cold December night when he observed a fire in a stable that he experienced a love like never before and realized his value through an act of service. 

The story is told in a rhyme fashion, easy and quick to read yet loaded with depth and value. The illustrations are sweet and cute, immediately drawing the reader in with the simplicity yet detailed depictions. It is one of those books the kids want to hear over and over agan that I don't mind reading repeatedly.

 I absolutely love that a portion of proceds from the sale of the book go to www.stamma.org, an organization that existst to help create a better world for people who stammer. A book with a great message in an enticing manner that also does good with it's sales? That's a huge win for me! I am proud to support this author and her fantastic works!

You can purchase a copy of The Robin's First Christmas here
You can also find out more about STAMMA at www.stamma.org
Find out more about the author and her works at:
 www.susannetschroder.com
Facebook: @stschroder
Twitter: stschroder
Instagram: stschroder

The Star DVD Promotion

Each time a movie with Christian values and a Godly theme succeed in the big world of theater going movie consumers, I rejoice that the word of God is getting out there and maintain hope for the big world so riddled with pain and trouble.  Today, I rejoice in the success and new release of the movie "The Star" which was in theaters around Christmas.

 If you haven't seen "The Star" yet, you are missing out on a super cute re-telling of the Christmas story from a new and unique point of view.  My family had the opportunity to see it on Christmas Eve and enjoyed it thoroughly.  It is appropriate for even the littlest of children, with a rating of PG for some thematic elements,  but entertaining and engaging for the big ones and adults too!  A full length feature (86 minutes) with big name voice actors, such as Tracy Morgan, Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry, Kelly Clarkson, Patricia Heaton and more, this film offers a whole lot of humor and a fresh perspective brings life the journey of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Christ in a brand new way.

Through the eyes of Bo, a spirited young donkey who finds plenty of ways to get into mischief with his friends, the Christmas story unfolds.  Along Bo's journey from stubborn will to a realization of the bigger picture, viewers see the story unfolding through the eyes of animals who take on funny characteristics and do silly things that keep children giggling.  Familiar and new songs run through the story and add content to the story. 

My children have been asking since viewing the move in theater when we can buy a copy so we can watch it again, so I am very excited about the release of the movie and am set to buy my copy this week!

The Facebook page has so much more information.  A live guided Bible Study is available simply by clicking on the post (link).  This takes you to messenger, where, when you give access, it opens up a chat box where you are given prompts to interact and receive video lessons over a few weeks.  This Bible Study is engaging and interactive, fun and a neat way to participate.

Additionally, there is tons of fun to be found on "The Star" disc/digital file itself.  At the website below, you will find information and promotional goodies like sneak peeks, release information, crafts and recipes, coloring and activity sheets, music and more.  You will also find details on the video bonus features, which includes sing along videos from Mariah Carey, Fifth Harmony, Kelsea Ballerini, A Great Big World and Kirk Franklin.  Additionally, there is a  "Faith All Year Round Children's Sermon" with Devon Franklin, which discusses the themes of the film and how to keep that spirit alive all year round.  Also among the bonus features is a recipe, a craft and a chance to meet the All-Star cast.

Website: http://sites.sonypictures.com/thestar/discanddigital/?hs308=TSR084D

#TheStarMovie
#FlyBy

Amy Grant Tennessee Christmas Album Review

Tennessee Christmas
Amy Grant

Just in time for the holidays, Amy Grant has released her new Christmas Album, titled "Tennessee Christmas".

In Amy's traditional fashion, this album is a slower paced, comforting selection of familiar and new songs that set the mood for a relaxed holiday season.  Her down home feel appeals to many styles of listeners.  With duets, melodic accompaniment and her beautiful alto range, listeners find themselves want to settle in front of a warm fire and curl up on a cold winter night.

Though not a regular fan of Amy's, I am familiar with her voice through the connection of her marriage to country singer Vince Gill.  I have enjoyed listening to this album.  Many of the songs were new to me, but there were enough that I knew, sung differently enough to be signature songs for Amy.  We enjoyed this album as we decorated our Christmas tree over the Thanksgiving holiday and are sure to continue to enjoy it throughout the holiday season.

You can listen to one of her new tracks, "To Be Together" by clicking here
You can buy the album here

For a chance to be included in a compilation video being created by Amy Grant, you have the option to upload a video of yourself surprising loved ones for the holidays to social media using the hashtag #TNChristmasSurprise!  It will be similar to this video.  Those chosen will be part of a compilation that Amy will be sharing on her own social media outlets.

#TennesseeChristmas
#flyby

I received this album for free in exchange for my honest and un-biased review.  All opinions expressed are my own, I was not compensated for this review.