The Miracle of the Wooden Shoes

Reviewed by Madison Stephens, 12-year-old LDSFiles.com Staff Writer

The Miracle of the Wooden Shoes by Deborah Pace Rowley. Illustrated by Dan Burr. Published by Deseret Book.

Retail Price: $18.95 Available here

Ten year-old Walter is sad because every young boy and girl in Germany will wake up on Dec.6, St. Nicholas Day, and discover their wooden shoes filled with candy and nuts. But not Walter. His dad is ill and his family is poor. He will have to work and not get the wooden shoes filled. But to his and his family's surprise, his shoes are filled with a little piece of paper containing a bible verse on it.

I thought "The Miracle of the Wooden Shoes" is a thoughtful story with passion and warmth. It really shows the true meaning of the holiday season. This is a great Christmas story but it's lessons can be applied all year long. I recommend this book to all ages.

Christmas Rose

Reviewed by McKenzie Stephens, Teen LDSFiles.com Staff Writer

Christmas Rose by Robyn Buttars. Published by Shadow Mountain.

Retail Price: $8.95 Available here

Rosie, a fourth grader, lives in an unlikely place for children. 'The Pleasant Manor' is a care center for the elderly. It's the only home she has really known. All of 'The Pleasant Manor's' residents are just one big family to Rosie, especially Bessie. Rosie and Bessie are best friends. Bessie teaches Rosie life lessons and is a warm loving support for her. With Christmas soon ariving, Bessie talks of dying. But with the help of a garden and a Christmas letter, Bessie teaches Rosie that they will always be together in each other's hearts.

I absolutely love this book. I finished it all in one day because I just couldn't put it down. This story is so sweet and has taught me many lessons. This is a wonderful Christmas story, but is also a valuable lesson year round. I recommend this book for any age.