The Year Of The Perfect Christmas Tree Pdf
As the holiday season approaches, families everywhere are unpacking their boxes of decorations, trimming their trees, and settling in for the most wonderful time of the year. For many of us, Christmas is a time of tradition, family, and togetherness, and nothing captures that spirit quite like the classic children's book, 'The Year Of The Perfect Christmas Tree.'
What Is 'The Year Of The Perfect Christmas Tree'?
'The Year Of The Perfect Christmas Tree' is a beloved children's book written by Gloria Houston and illustrated by Barbara Cooney. First published in 1988, the book tells the story of a young girl named Ruthie and her family as they prepare for Christmas in the small town of Pine Grove, North Carolina during World War I.
As the book opens, Ruthie's father, a soldier fighting in Europe, has promised to come home for Christmas and provide the town with the perfect Christmas tree. But when he is delayed overseas, it falls to Ruthie and her mother to find and deliver the tree themselves, braving snowstorms and wild animals in the process.
The story is a touching tribute to the sacrifices and struggles of families during wartime, and a celebration of the power of tradition and family to bring us together even when we are apart.
Why Is 'The Year Of The Perfect Christmas Tree' So Special?
There are many reasons why 'The Year Of The Perfect Christmas Tree' has become such a beloved classic of children's literature. For one thing, the book is beautifully written and illustrated, capturing the magic and wonder of the holiday season with vivid language and stunning artwork.
But perhaps more importantly, the book speaks to our deepest values and beliefs about family, tradition, and the true meaning of Christmas. In a world that is often fast-paced, impersonal, and disconnected, the story of Ruthie and her family reminds us of the importance of coming together, of relying on one another, and of holding on to the things that matter most.
Teaching Values Through 'The Year Of The Perfect Christmas Tree'
One of the reasons why 'The Year Of The Perfect Christmas Tree' is such a timeless classic is because it teaches important values and lessons that are just as relevant today as they were in 1918. Here are just a few of the key themes and messages that the book explores:
Family
At its core, 'The Year Of The Perfect Christmas Tree' is a story about family. Throughout the book, we see Ruthie and her mother working together to find and deliver the perfect Christmas tree, demonstrating the power of love, sacrifice, and collaboration in overcoming obstacles.
The book also celebrates the broader community of Pine Grove, which comes together to support Ruthie and her mother as they strive to make Christmas special despite the challenges of wartime. As the book reminds us, family is not just about blood relations, but about the people who love and support us through thick and thin.
Tradition
Another key theme of 'The Year Of The Perfect Christmas Tree' is tradition. Throughout the book, Ruthie and her family are depicted as deeply rooted in their community and its customs, from participating in the annual Christmas pageant to decorating the town square with wreaths and garlands.
At a time when so many of our traditions and customs are under threat, the book reminds us of the importance of holding on to the things that make us who we are, and of passing those traditions down to future generations.
The True Meaning Of Christmas
Finally, 'The Year Of The Perfect Christmas Tree' is a powerful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. While the book is filled with twinkling lights, festive music, and holiday cheer, it never forgets the deeper spiritual significance of the season.
From the opening pages, we are reminded that Christmas is a time of joy and hope, of love and redemption, and of the miraculous birth of a savior who came to bring peace to a troubled world. By the end of the book, we are left with a sense of wonder and gratitude for the many blessings that life has to offer, even in times of hardship and uncertainty.
Conclusion
'The Year Of The Perfect Christmas Tree' is more than just a children's book. It is a heartfelt tribute to the power of family, tradition, and the true meaning of Christmas, providing readers of all ages with a message of hope and joy that is as relevant today as it was when the book was first published over 30 years ago. Whether you are a parent looking for a way to connect with your children during the holiday season, or simply a lover of great literature, 'The Year Of The Perfect Christmas Tree' is a book that is sure to capture your heart and imagination for many Christmases to come.
