Christmas lovers. Book lovers. Lovers of anything awesome. Boy, do I have something for you.
It is called The Sparkle Box. Written by Jill Hardie and illustrated by Christine Kornacki, this book holds so much more than a story. It holds a gift that could truly change Christmas forever.
The pressures of commercialism this season undeniably overshadow the true meaning of Christmas. Whether you're a Christian or not, Christmas is a holiday that celebrates Jesus' birthday. Whether you're a Christian or not, it is beyond doubt that Christmas has turned into a holiday weighed down by materialism.
The beauty of The Sparkle Box, though, is that it brings peace and joy to the holiday, no matter what religion you adhere to. The beauty behind this tradition is that it can fill the emptiness that material items cannot.
Though the story itself is more so aimed toward children, I hesitate to refer to it as a children's book because it holds so much more than a bedtime story. This story brings truth and holds the power to reveal the true meaning of Christmas.
Sam, the book's main character, is so excited for Christmas. He is eager to spend time with his family and is thinking about his Christmas list, eying a shiny red train in a shop window. But, a mysterious sparkly box on the mantel above the fireplace has Sam puzzled -- and his mother will only tell him that it is a special gift called The Sparkle Box, and that it needs to be filled before it is opened.
Little does Sam know, The Sparkle Box will be far more precious than that shiny red train could ever be.
In the midst of merriments, Sam and his family are sure to spread Christmas cheer through acts of kindness for those less fortunate. Blankets for the homeless, gloves for those who can't afford them, and even a well for an underdeveloped village in Africa.
On Christmas morning, the mysterious Sparkle Box is opened. Inside are slips of paper and written on each are the deeds that Sam's family did throughout the season. Sam's mother explains that the kind acts they did were gifts to Jesus -- gifts to honor Him on His birthday. For Jesus said that whatever we do for others, we are doing for Him. Each year, they will fill The Sparkle Box with gifts of kindness and compassion.
Timeless. The Sparkle Box is absolutely timeless, and there is no doubt in my mind that this tradition will be an integral part to your Christmas spirit once you start it. Head to your nearest book store to purchase The Sparkle Box, or order a copy online. Spoiler alert: the book even includes a Sparkle Box of your own so you can put this tradition to practice immediately.
Author Jill Hardie explained, with a soothing smile, that the name 'The Sparkle Box,' references the light that we all have inside of ourselves -- the ability that we have to make the world a brighter place.
Imagine what the world would be like if everyone who hung a stocking near their Christmas tree also had a Sparkle Box underneath.
So, my readers, please share the story of The Sparkle Box with your friends, family and neighbors. Make the world a brighter place! Spread the authenticity that this story holds and see what true impact will be made.
You are the light of the world. Make it sparkle.
