Christmas Is Here    by Lauren Castillo Order:  USA  Can Simon & Schuster, 2010 (2010) Hardcover     Reviewed by Bob Walch The text from the second chapter of Luke in the King James Bible provides the text for this picture book that reminds us of the real meaning of Christmas. 'And there was in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.' Thus begins this illustrated version of the nativity story that follows three shepherds from the hillsides above Bethlehem to the stable where they are told, 'Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' Lauren Castillo's evocative illustrations move the reader from a wintry scene picturing a family trudging through the snow to see their town's crèche to the Holy Land where the Baby Jesus was born. The final pages return to the village where the snow is falling and carolers are singing, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will towards men.' Perfect for a family with young children, this picture book hopefully will become a seasonal favorite and one that will be read aloud in front of the Christmas tree for years to come. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews