Crow’s Christmas Star

Written by Carolyn Watson-Dubisch

Illustrated by Mike Dubisch

All the animals in the forest are excited. It is time to decorate the Christmas tree.

As each of them scurries to find a gift that can be used to decorate, the crow becomes frustrated. He has been commissioned to find something bright to become the star for the top of the tree. As the crow continues his search, nothing seems good enough.

Read the story to reveal the important message that the crow’s forest friends bestow on him for his efforts.

A charming story with an impactful message for our youngest readers.

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The Forest Painter: A Short Story

Written by Diane Mae Robinson

Deep within The Majestic Forest, a bugle call from the top of Peak Mountain has summoned the fairy sprites, the elves, and the wind weavers to perform their autumn responsibilities. But Aura, the Forest Painter, who has been designated to paint the leaves in autumn colors, feels she cannot accomplish the task. Her grandmother was the master painter. Both Aura’s grandmother and parents have already left to paint the heavens. Aura complains that she has not been prepared properly for the task. If she cannot complete her work before the frost arrives, the frost queen will claim the forest forever. Kepa urges her to ask Boreal to help, but Aura believes that Boreal once stole her grandmother’s paintbrush. Will Aura succeed in her race against time to save the trees of the forest? All the plants and animals of the forest are dependent upon her.

This twelve-page story is written with tenderness and empathy. Robinson has deftly woven personification and alliteration with a cadence of language that is charming. Written for a middle-grade audience, it is a sweet and sensitive read that will appeal to a wide range of audiences from beginning reader to adult. Perfect afternoon read to get into the spirit of the changing season.

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