Nativity
What’s inside...
From the annunciation in Nazareth to the flight of the Holy Family into Egypt, here is the Nativity, the birth of Jesus the Christmas story, based on Gospel events, retold traditionally and sympathetically and stunningly illustrated by Martina Peluso. To view our other titles search 'Anno Domini Publishing' on Amazon. Additionally, this hardcover children’s book stitches together the stories about the birth of Jesus in an engaging way. From the Annunciation and Visitation all the way to the stable in Bethlehem and beyond, this book will create a space for children to encounter Jesus. With engaging storytelling and colorful illustrations on every page, this book is sure to captivate young Catholics. It is written for little Catholics, but even adults will grow closer to Jesus and appreciate the Nativity story all the more through this read-aloud book. With Bible verses cited for each part of the story, adults can read the story and learn more in their own Great Adventure Catholic Bible. This book is geared toward ages 3–7, and pairs well with 'A Very Noisy Stable', which is perfect for slightly younger children ages 3–5.
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think was the most important part of the story?
How do you think Mary and Joseph felt during their journey?
Why do you think the shepherds were chosen to hear the news of Jesus' birth?
What can we learn from the way people in the story treated each other?
If you were in the story, what gifts would you bring to baby Jesus?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine the setting and characters by asking them to describe what they think the stable or the angels looked like.
Invite your child to express their feelings about the story by asking how different events made them feel.
Discuss the values of kindness and generosity shown in the story and relate them to everyday life.
Help your child connect with the story by discussing its relevance to modern traditions of giving and community during the holiday season.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: The story of the Nativity teaches children about the struggles of Mary and Joseph as they look for shelter, evoking a sense of empathy and compassion towards others' hardships.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these feelings to understand and help their peers or family members who may be facing difficulties.
Example Lesson: Importance of generosity
Explanation: As the innkeepers offer Mary and Joseph a place in the stable, this act of kindness illustrates the virtue of generosity, even when one has little to give.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to share and give to others, even if it's something as simple as sharing a toy or helping out at home.
Example Lesson: Hope and faith
Explanation: The birth of Jesus in humble settings under a starry sky signifies hope and the importance of faith, reassuring readers that good things can happen in challenging times.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to remain hopeful and positive, even in less than ideal circumstances.
Example Lesson: Celebration of new beginnings
Explanation: The joyous arrival of Jesus symbolizes a celebration of new life and beginnings, shared with a community of diverse visitors like the shepherds and wise men.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children to appreciate and honor important beginnings and milestones in their own lives and in the lives of those around them.