My son and I have always enjoyed watching the televised series of Berenstain Bear’s cartoons, so I was excited to receive a review copy of, “The Berenstain Bear’s Christmas Tree” book.  Jeffrey, was excited as I showed him the newest book to add to his collection and he wanted me to read it to him right away.

Something that bothers me a little is how Jeffrey equates Christmas to gifts.  No matter how many times I’ve tried to teach him what Christmas is all about, he still anxiously asks me, “So how many more days till I open my gifts?”  What I didn’t expect was how a family of Bears would help me with my quest.

“The Berenstain Bear’s Christmas Tree” book tells the tale of how Mama, Papa, Sister and Brother Bear search for the perfect Christmas tree to decorate their home.  Papa Bear forgets about the spirit of sharing and hunts up and down the forest for the perfect tree.  When he realizes that there are animals living in these trees, he starts to remember the spirit of Christmas and goes back in town to buy a tree.  It’s too late however, as the trees are already sold out.

The animals in the forest are grateful for Papa Bear’s understanding of the importance of kindness and respecting other people and return the favor by giving the Berenstain family a special gift.  They come home to find their Tree House decorated with Christmas ornaments.

The book starts off with a quote from The Bible – Matthew 7:12, ““So in everything, do to others what you would have them to do you” and gives readers an idea of the important lesson taught in this story.

The whole story is written in rhyme but flows through very naturally.  I was surprised to see how many pages the book contained ( 72 ), but it was only to my son’s delight.  It also contained many illustrations that allowed him to follow along with the story.

About the Authors

Mike Berenstain grew up watching his parents, Stan and Jan, working together to write and draw these lovable bears. Eventually he started drawing and writing about them too. Mike is married to Andrea and they have three children. They live in Pennsylvania, in an area that looks a lot like Bear Country.

You can read all about The Berenstain Family adventures on their website, including some more great classics such as:

• The Berenstain Bears and the Golden Rule
• The Berenstain Bears: Faithful Friends
• The Berenstain Bears Give Thanks
• The Berenstain Bears Go to Sunday School
• The Berenstain Bears God Loves You!
• The Berenstain Bears Love Their Neighbors
• The Berenstain Bears Play a Good Game
• The Berenstain Bears Say Their Prayers

The opinions expressed in this review are my own, and have not been influenced by receiving the review item.