The Spirit of Christmas - Book Review - Bibliophiles
"The Spirit of Christmas

The Spirit of Christmas Book Review: Nancy Tillman's Holiday Book

Nancy Tillman's holiday picture book about the sights, sounds and feelings of Christmas, and the love and togetherness behind them. For readers of all ages.

Team Zootii Updated · 4 min read

Some families have a book that only comes off the shelf in December, read on the same evening every year. Nancy Tillman's The Spirit of Christmas is written to become that book.

This Spirit of Christmas book review looks at the story, the illustrations, who it suits and why so many families give it as a holiday gift.

The short answer The Spirit of Christmas is a holiday picture book written and illustrated by Nancy Tillman. In lyrical text and glowing pictures, it walks through the sights, sounds and feelings of Christmas and reminds readers about love, generosity and togetherness. It suits readers of all ages and is often shared as a gift.

The Spirit of Christmas by Nancy Tillman, book cover

ISBN: 9781250002914

The Spirit of Christmas book review: what the book is about

Nancy Tillman's holiday story captures the joy, love and wonder of the season.

Readers travel through the sights, sounds and emotions of Christmas, from twinkling lights on the tree to the warmth of family gatherings. Each page celebrates the small moments that make the holidays memorable.

Through lyrical text and expressive pictures, the book reminds readers of the true meaning of the season: love, generosity and togetherness.

Why families love it

Its heartfelt message and beautiful artwork create a sense of warmth that speaks to readers of all ages.

The themes of love, gratitude and the magic of the season encourage families to slow down and cherish time with loved ones. Whether read aloud on a winter evening or given as a gift, it easily becomes a holiday tradition.

Cherish the moments spent with loved ones.

The illustrations

The pictures glow with festive charm, from cosy family scenes to snow-covered forests.

Characters are drawn with warmth and tenderness. The artwork brings out joy, nostalgia and wonder, and makes the sights and sounds of the season feel both magical and timeless.

Who is it for?

It is a holiday picture book that pairs poetic storytelling with rich illustrations, suitable for readers of all ages who enjoy stories about the magic of Christmas.

The Spirit of Christmas book for kids and families

The book reminds readers of the importance of love, gratitude and generosity.

It encourages children to spread joy, kindness and goodwill, and to feel connected to the people around them, beyond the rush of the holidays.

Family tradition tip Read it on the same evening each December and let a different family member read one page each year. Children start looking forward to their turn.

About the author, Nancy Tillman

Nancy Tillman is an author and illustrator known for heartfelt children's books that celebrate childhood and the bonds of love. With The Spirit of Christmas she captures the feeling of the holiday season.

Similar Christmas books

  • "The Christmas Wish" by Lori Evert
  • "The Polar Express" by Chris Van Allsburg
  • "How the Grinch Stole Christmas!" by Dr. Seuss

Gift it right: The Spirit of Christmas as a holiday or birthday gift

The book itself is made for giving, and for a December baby it sits well among books as birthday gifts for kids too. Write a short note inside, add a name label so it stays in the family, and finish the wrapping with a name sticker.

See all personalised book labels, or browse our gifts for kids to pair the book with something more.

Frequently asked questions

Who wrote The Spirit of Christmas?

Nancy Tillman, who also illustrated it.

What age is The Spirit of Christmas for?

It is a holiday picture book suitable for readers of all ages.

Is The Spirit of Christmas a good gift?

Yes. Its message of love, gratitude and togetherness makes it a popular book to give during the holidays.

Found this useful? Send it to the family group.

Written by Team Zootii

We are the parents and makers behind Zootii in Mumbai. We write about what we test with our own kids: school labels, gifting and everyday hacks.

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