Sometimes it just takes a different perspective to see a familiar scene in an extraordinary new way.

Asher of Bethlehem gives the reader a unique glimpse into the birth of Jesus.  I mistakenly expected this to be a small storybook for children.  Instead, it’s more of a chapter book for advanced readers.  It’s a great read for families who want to spend the exciting days of December preparing for the Christmas spirit.   The book introduces concepts that my daughter was unfamiliar with.   While some of the issues are rather difficult to explain to a child (beggars, being abandoned, etc.), reading Asher of Bethlehem provides families with the opportunity to discuss these situations with a sense of hope.  Readers should be aware that although Asher is the main character of the book, the birth of Jesus is the event that turns the story into a moment.  It might be hard for younger children to distinguish between Asher and Jesus as the most important part of the story.

From a teacher’s standpoint, I found that Asher of Bethlehem used colorful, vivid language to describe the scenes.  Having this richness in a children’s story is uncommon.  I would certainly consider this as a read aloud in a Sunday School class or with my family.  If you need a fresh new read to make the Christmas season special this year, give Asher of Bethlehem a try.

Disclosure of Material: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”