‘Twas the Day Before Christmas in Bethlehem Town

Jena Muhr reviews a Christmas-themed storybook for children that helps young readers anticipate the birth of Christ.

'Twas the Day Before Christmas in Bethlehem Town

by Leslie Bond Diggins; illustrated by Erin Neilson

Published by Pauline Books & Media

'Twas the Day Before Christmas in Bethlehem Town by Leslie Bond Diggins is a delightful book taking a spin on the classic ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, making the day leading up to the birth of Christ the center of the story. The story follows a shepherd boy as he grumbles about all the new people in town due to the census. But he learns with the help of his father the importance of welcoming and accepting the new people because of their own history of being in a new place.

The story ends with angels announcing to the boy and the other shepherds that a new king is born, and the boy races to visit him to find that he has already met the happy parents! 

A great bedtime story to lead up to Christmas

The works are beautiful and rhyme in such a peaceful cadence that it makes a great bedtime story book. The illustrations by Erin Neilson are clean and clear with a touch of whimsy and allow for the words of the story to be echoed through the pictures.   

My children really enjoyed this book. I can see it being a regular in our Christmas book rotation. It would make a wonderful Saint Nicholas Day present so that it can be enjoyed leading up to Christmas day.  

Is this a book you'd like to read? Share your thoughts with the Catholic Mom community! You'll find the comment box below the author's bio and list of recommended articles.

Copyright 2024 Jena Muhr
Images: Canva