Christmas Classics

The Nutcracker ballet is a Christmas tradition. This year my sister Jenny organized a field trip with some homeschool friends and my Mom and Grandma came along too! It was especially fun because we knew some of the dancers. We went out for lunch afterwards and made a day of it.

I have several picture book versions of The Nutcracker, but my favorite is illustrated by Renee Graef. Her warm and wonderful illustrations are the perfect complement to Hoffman's classic story. This is the version to buy because it also includes a CD with the story and Tchaikovsky's music.


Another classic illustrated by Graef is Santa Comes to Little House. This story always humbles us when we read about the joy and gratitude the girls feel when they receive their simple gifts. This is the perfect soothing story to read after a busy day of Christmas shopping or baking.


Both of these books will put you in the mood for an old-fashioned Christmas!