This seems to be the season for new Christmas picture books to be released, and this one is another gem. Kate Rietema is an aspiring children’s author who’s being recognized among her peers. Her sweet story-telling voice, creative ideas, and award-winning books are finding their way into the Christian children’s market and her books belong on the shelves!

Her latest story warms my heart and brings a tea to my eye. But rather than having me tell you all about it, why not hear the inspiration from the author herself. I asked her a few questions and am happy to share the answers with you.

How did you come up with the idea for this sweet Christmas story? 

Little Stable, Holy Night was inspired by our family’s love of hospitality. Many years ago, we decided to make room for others by becoming a foster home. In a way, I’ve always thought of our house like a personified character—opening her doors to others. With this image in mind, I thought, what if I wrote the Christmas story from the perspective of the stable? Sharing our home has always felt like special work, and I wondered if the stable would’ve felt the same as she welcomed animals, visitors, and baby Jesus. 

Besides the birth of Jesus, what do you want little ones to learn? 

In this story, the stable offers the invitation of “Come,” which points towards Jesus’ invitation to each of us.  I want readers to feel that warm invitation, and then be inspired to extend that invitation to others—with open hearts and open doors—just like Little Stable. I want little ones to see the joy of making others feel wanted and welcomed. 

The illustrations are adorable! Tell us about them.

Yes! I was thrilled to have this book illustrated by Bruno Brogna! The pages are full of warm colors, an anthropomorphic stable, and piles of adorable animals. It was important to me that the illustrations had culturally and geographically accurate elements, like a stone stable and hewn manger, and I’m so pleased with how this book came together. Huge thanks to Bruno and the team at Paraclete Press!

What else would you like our followers to know?

There are some great free activity sheets and discussion questions available on my website. I encourage you to print them off and use them this Christmas with the little ones you love as you explore the precious gift of Jesus.

I’m also excited to share that Little Stable, Holy Night has a partner book releasing in time for Easter. Holy Morning, Little Tomb is a joyful retelling of Jesus’ resurrection from the perspective of the tomb. 

Where can we find out more about you and your books (include any links)

The best place to find more about me is on my website, and you can also connect with me on social media:

Website: www.katerietema.com

Instagram: @katerietema

Facebook: Kate Rietema – Children’s Author

Thank you, Kate!

I love everything about this book and am happy to share it with our followers. And here are a few words of my own:

This beautifully crafted story reminds us that hospitality warms our empty, chilly spaces while offering warmth and safety to those who enter through our open doors. Like Little Stable, may we welcome others into our hearts and homes during this holy season as we celebrate the One who fills us with His love.

Here’s to a sweet stable filled with warm and happy animals and a newborn King.

Crystal

Five big smiles for this sweet Christmas story! 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂

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