Bartholomew's Passage: A Family Story for Advent (Storybooks for Advent)
#2 in Advent Adventures Series
on Goodreads (818)
What’s inside...
Bartholomew's Passage is an Advent storybook that follows the journey of a young boy named Bartholomew during the time of Jesus' birth. After his family is killed by the Romans, Bartholomew finds himself alone and struggling to survive. Throughout the story, he encounters various characters and faces numerous challenges. As he searches for a safe place, his path eventually leads him to Bethlehem where he witnesses the birth of Jesus Christ. This book is part of Arnold Ytreeide's series of family storybooks for Advent, designed to be read aloud each day of the Advent season, providing a captivating and spiritual lead-up to Christmas. The story not only entertains but also teaches important lessons about faith, perseverance, and the true meaning of Christmas.
Why read this book
- Enhances family bonding during the Advent season.
- Encourages historical knowledge and cultural awareness.
- Fosters empathy and resilience through character challenges.
- Interactive read-aloud for engaging family discussions.
The Big Picture
- Emphasizes resilience through adversities.
- Highlights the importance of maintaining faith.
- Encourages personal growth and moral integrity.
- Facilitates discussions on real-life challenges.
What parents love
- Perfect blend of adventure and historical insights.
- Respectful handling of sensitive themes for kids.
- Keeps my child engaged and eager to read more.
- Educational yet incredibly fun to read together.
Diversity & Representation
- Showcases diverse cultural perspectives on historical Christian narratives.
- Integrates global settings enriching the cultural dimensions.
Discussion points
How do you think Bartholomew felt during his journey, and what would you have done in his situation?
What are some of the important lessons Bartholomew learns in his adventures?
How do the different characters in Bartholomew's story help him on his journey?
What does this story teach us about courage and faith during difficult times?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, altering your voice for different characters to help your child understand the story better.
After reading a chapter, ask your child to predict what might happen next, enhancing their analytical thinking and engagement.
Encourage your child to draw scenes from the book or act out parts of the story, making the narrative more interactive and memorable.
Discuss the historical and cultural settings of the story to provide your child with a deeper understanding of the context in which Bartholomew's adventures take place.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance in adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Bartholomew, faces numerous challenges throughout his journey. His resilience and determination to overcome obstacles are depicted as he navigates through perilous situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of not giving up in the face of difficulties, whether it's solving a tough math problem or dealing with a hard day at school.
Example Lesson: The value of hope
Explanation: Bartholomew's story is intertwined with the hopeful anticipation of the Advent season. This theme of hope is consistently revisited as the character looks forward towards a significant and fulfilling event.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of having a positive outlook and expecting good things in their future, helping them to handle current challenges more effectively.
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, Bartholomew encounters various characters, some in need of help. His responses are guided by empathy and kindness, providing aid and showing compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize when someone else is in need and how acting with kindness can make a positive difference in others' lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community
Explanation: Bartholomew often reflects on his family and the community around him, drawing strength and guidance from these relationships.
Real-World Application: This lesson underscores the significance of maintaining strong family ties and actively participating in the community, reinforcing social bonds and collective support.
Example Lesson: Courage in uncertain times
Explanation: Facing unforeseen challenges and risks, Bartholomew shows courage and bravado, stepping boldly into unknown situations to reach his goals.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to face new or intimidating situations with courage, understanding that bravery is not the absence of fear but the ability to move forward despite it.