The Night Before Christmas

It Christmastime at the Burges' Estate. On Christmas Eve, my daughter and my wonderful granddaughter were baking gingerbread cookies for their Santa (Daddy Burges). I walked into the kitchen and sneaked a taste of strawberry flavored icing. My hands were spanked (gently) by little grammie, "Gramarie, you are going to make me mess-up my gingerbread man" she smiled and said. But, "I love red icing." As I turned around to look at the stove, my daughter was focused on bringing out another batch of hot cookies. Mmm, I thought. How can I snatch one. I moved in for the snatch...As I tasted my hot cookies and sipped my hot apple cider I was drawn to a book lying on my rolltop desk. I reached for the book and begin to read, 'Twas the Night Before Christmas - An African-American Version. Based on the original poem, the retelling is charming. You see, many African Americans often retold tales they heard to make the stories all their own. The first page showed a cozy sitting room. This reminded me of when my children were very young. I would sit by the fire late at night with some kind of stitching as I thanked God for the blessing of the day. As I read each page I showed the children the detailed illustrations. Their faces gleamed with pride as they saw the family snugged in their beds awaiting the glorious day. The father in the book was of strong character and displayed a wonderful involvement in his children's lives. It seemed like his delight would jump off the page. This turn of the century family encouraged me to continue to build upon what God has blessed. My little girls were enchanted by this warm family story. I encourage you to read it next year.

December Book Selections

Book Selections for the month of December:

First, a Burges family favorite, perfect for all ages:

The Bells of Christmas By Virginia Hamilton

Children: Bad News for Outlaws: The Remarkable life of Bass Reeves, Deputy U.S. Marshall By Vaunda Micheaux Nelson

Youth: The Cruisers By Walter Dean Myers

Teens/Adults: Extraordinary, Ordinary People: A Memoir of Family By Condoleezza Rice

I believe you will truly enjoy this month's selections. Pictured is my son feasting on the true story of Bass Reeves, Deputy Marshall. It is a fascinating account of his life as a "feared and respected" lawman in the territories. While on a recent field trip at our regional National Archives, the educational specialist mention that researchers had validated his presence in the Oklahoma Indian territory through documents at the facility. Of course that made it all the more thrilling to read the book.

The Cruiser, the first book of another wonderful series written by Walter Dean Myers for youth, is bound to be a hit. And or course, Condoleezza Rice captures your attention immediately and draws you in to hear the story of her extraordinary parents, John and Angelena Rice.

So take time this month to read a selection, and let us know what you think.

Happy December Reading!