TWAS the Night Before: Holiday Stories for Parents and Children

'TWAS the Night Before celebrates the joy and diversity of the holiday season with nine stories for adults and children to share on cold winter nights.

Sharon Bonesteel Mann's tales embrace Christmas, Eid al-Fitr, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Thanksgiving. Some are delightful reworkings of beloved tales and traditions; others introduce new characters and stories sure to become cherished favorites; all emphasize the spirit of love and understanding that brings people together for the holidays.

In 'TWAS the Night Before you'll read...

Solarbear's Christmas: What happens when Santa crash lands on a mysterious island on his way home Christmas morning, and to what length does Mrs. Claus go to in trying to solve the mystery?

Starlight: Jasper Rabbit's family travels to see the Christmas tree lighting in Town Square, collecting a few friends along the way. With Balthazar Badger and Melchior Squirrel, Jasper learns a few lessons about sharing and the true meaning of the Christmas Season.

MacCabee's Lighthouse: After thieves steal the fuel, Ruth must help her mother keep the lighthouse lit until her father returns home from fishing on the Outer Banks. When her mother hurts her back, it's the hard work, creative solutions, and helpful townspeople that keep the light lit for seven days. When Dad brings his vessel home safely it is truly a Happy Hanukkah!

Humble Pie: Eric's attempt to beat Mrs. Munson in a Thanksgiving pie contest comes with some lessons of fairness, persistence, and the ability to fail and try again.

The King's Birthday: All the presents in the world are not as satisfying as a HUG!

Kwanzaa Cat: Working hard at the Humane Society's Cat Café, Nia and her brother Imani hope to adopt a Cat. Guided by the principles of Kwanzaa they present their case in a family meeting (and share in some great cat-adoption lessons, too).

Art Class Love: A Muslim art teacher helps her students discover their inner talents, and on the way they learn about the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr.

The Christmas Thief: Who stole the baby from the Christmas manger? Sam and Lily follow the footprints to discover the thief and the vandals who wrecked their neighbor's Christmas display.

The Traveler: In the spirit of Elijah and the Widow, a mysterious stranger brings food and happiness to an elderly Mormon couple, shining light where light and life were failing.

Gather your loved ones, pass around the hot chocolate (don't forget the marshmallows), spread a quilt across your lap, and share a new favorite story from 'TWAS the Night Before.