Book Review: Unwrapping the Greatest Gift by Ann Voskamp
Author: Ann Voskamp
Publisher: Tyndale
Reading Level: Leisure
Pages: 160
Advent is a pretty big deal in our house. With that in mind I requested Unwrapping the Greatest Gift by Ann Voskamp for highly personal reasons. Written as a daily advent guide, Unwrapping the Greatest Gift provides daily reading, beautiful illustrations, discussion questions, and even activities. Starting in the garden and concluding in Bethlehem, the entire story of the Scripture is presented in twenty-five days.
Along with beautiful illustrations (by Martina Peluso) there are lengthy Scripture readings and devotional readings. Despite covering the full breadth of the Scriptures, these readings tie back into the fully realized promise of Jesus Christ. This is an excellent practice of incorporating the entire Bible, teaching application focused hermeneutics, and maintaining the Advent focus. Despite this impressive focus, the devotionals do seem better suited for older children and not the younglings currently in my household.
Unwrapping the Greatest Gift also incorporates the Jesse Tree practice of ornaments. These ornaments can be purchased but also downloaded for private printing. These ornaments can be used as part of a daily craft/activity as well as incorporated into evening family worship.
In conclusion, Unwrapping the Greatest Gift seems an excellent addition to Advent centered households with children. With colorful illustration and a Christ-focused application to the entire Scripture there is no downside sans the high level of the devotions.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
