Books for December

Most of the time my reading life varies with the wind; I will read whatever strikes my fancy at a given moment. I love recommendations from friends, picking up a new release from the library, or going into the bookstore and finding something on a whim.

This December, however, I am going to be more intentional. I researched and sought out several different types of books to help fill my soul, help me escape, and learn a little bit, too.

Last December, I shared five of my favorite holiday books, which are still my favorites today. This year’s holiday book post contains more variety and types of books, and I hope you can find something in my list to add to your reading life!

Books For December

I chose two middle-grade/read-aloud books. I enjoy reading this genre all by myself, but gosh, I miss the days of reading aloud to homeschoolers.

• The Last Holiday Concert by Andrew Clements

• The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser

Next, I wanted a beautiful book of Advent wisdom/devotion. I’m looking forward to setting up my Advent Wreath on December 3rd.

• Advent and Christmas Wisdom from GK Chesterton

A little fluff is necessary (for me, at least!) in December. I’ve heard great things about this next book and am excited to read it.

• All’s Fair in Love and Christmas by Sarah Monzon

Books by Christian publishers and authors always top my list, which is why I included the next two books on the list:

• The Wish Book Christmas by Lynn Austin

• Once Upon a Dickens Christmas by Michelle Griep

This last book has been on my shelf for about a year. It’s high time I read it, and once again - I’ve heard great things about it!

• Marmee: A Novel of Little Women by Sarah Miller

An increased affection for literature has been a beautiful by-product of homeschooling. Once I began to share so much literature with my children, and once we began to discover other worlds in books, it became a passion of mine to keep READING.

Join us on Facebook in our reading group, Homegrown Book Picks. We have a lot of fun! If you’re an Instagram person, you can also join me there!

The Last Holiday Concert[LAST HOLIDAY CONCERT][Paperback]The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street (The Vanderbeekers, 1)Advent and Christmas Wisdom From G. K. chestertonAll’s Fair in Love and ChristmasThe Wish Book ChristmasOnce Upon a Dickens Christmas: 3 Charming Christmas Tales Set in Victorian EnglandMarmee: A Novel

What are YOU reading this December?

Leave me a comment below, and we’ll compare books!

You might also like:

Cultivate the Wonder of Advent in Your Home

Simple Christmas Learning Ideas that Become Traditions

Printable Scripture Ring for Kids

Giving children the gift of scripture is the single most important thing we can do for them. All things that happen to us in life have a scripture to go with them. I find that not only comforting but awe-inspiring.

God - through his infallible Word, the Bible - gave us advice, comfort, and peace for every situation in our lives. Sharing that with our children is a COMMAND. Do you remember how much I love my scripture ring and gifting one to friends? Right now I know a few precious little ones who are facing trying times, and I wanted to gift them a ring of scripture, too.

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Why Hiding Scripture in Their Hearts Matters

First, I wanted to share a convicting story with you.

My youngest child graduated from our homeschool last May. Throughout his first 18 years we filled him with scripture. When he was confirmed our church presented him with a beautiful Bible, and in that Bible my husband and I (along with other adults important in his life) highlighted verses. We signed our names by the verses so he knew who they were important to.

During my son’s first week away at college he was doing a devotion and texted me the picture above - his Bible with a verse from Zephaniah I had underlined for him. I whispered a prayer to God, thanking Him for directing my son to that devotional and verse - during a time in his life when he needed it so much.

The Lord your God is in your midst,
    a mighty one who will save;
he will rejoice over you with gladness;
    he will quiet you by his love;
he will exult over you with loud singing.

Zephaniah 3:17

(Can I tell you how much I LOVED that texted me that picture? I may have been a puddle of tears for the next hour or so. That image of God exulting over us with loud singing is beautiful. )

I also text him a verse that is important to me each day. Scripture keeps us connected and focused on TRUTH. As he is out in “the world” it arms him and protects him. This brings me comfort and peace.

Discipling our children is the most important thing we can do.

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Free Printable Scripture Ring for Kids

Please enjoy this printable scripture ring (with bonus corresponding coloring sheets!) I created for you. The complimentary download includes 12 English Standard Version verse cards, corresponding coloring pages, and a few suggestions for using these with your children.

Get out your laminator and binder rings and create this simple but effective tool for your children! Please encourage them to memorize all 12 verses; you will have given them a wonderful gift!

To download this complimentary set of cards and coloring pages, simply fill out the form below.

I’d also love to know how you embed Scripture in your child’s heart.

Do you memorize verses? Do you use a specific Bible study you love? Maybe you have a routine or tradition you’d like to share.

Leave a comment below and let me know.