God is everywhere, and His love lives in us. This rhyming concept book introduces how Jesus is always in our lives. Beautiful illustrations show Christ's supportive spiritual light around us. When we share God's light through acts of love and joy, it creates a ripple effect. Children will learn their numbers by counting how happiness grows from the true spirit of Christmas. Both children and adults are reminded through lyrical prose to pause and connect with Jesus. Christmas Begins With Christ is the perfect gift for the holiday season that's sure to inspire families for years to come. PreS-Gr 1—A cozy, faith-forward reminder that Christmas is only one day a year, but readers can spread love every day. The book begins with a spread showing Santa Claus in his sleigh and equates Jesus to the light Santa needs to find his way. From that opening, the rhythmic text leaves Christmas behind for a while and instead focuses on Jesus being with readers always, wherever they may be. Santa makes another appearance midway through the book, and the joy of Christmas is tied into spreading the love and joy of Jesus with everyone. Napolitano's illustrations have a warm glow, and the presence of Jesus is depicted through a light source in every spread. Human characters are shown in a variety of skin tones, and one person is shown using a wheelchair. VERDICT Not an essential purchase for every library, but there are families that will appreciate the connection this story makes between Jesus and more secular aspects of Christmas.—Heather Webb "This story encourages readers to spread love and joy every day of the year." - 5-star review from Reedsy "Jesus's role as the source of light for the world is a brilliant theme that illuminates the pages. The illustrations masterfully capture this idea, dazzling audiences with stirring images. The overall tone of the story will improve your mood, no matter what time of year. Whether you're looking for the perfect gift for a child in your life or simply helping your own children to recognize the reason for the season, you'll find a true gem in Christmas Begins With Christ." - 5-star review from Indies Today "This is a perfect story not just for young readers but adults as well. I am so glad Gina Kirkland was motivated to write this book because it was simply meant to be. It's like when you read an amazing book and just know it was fated to be written, and you can't stop recommending it. This is one of those books. It was dazzling from start to finish." - 5-star Review from Literary Titan "This wonderful book has many beautiful illustrations to accompany young readers on a colorful journey that will teach them Jesus is always with us and watches over us even if we cannot see him. It teaches the value of Christmas and emphasizes the constant presence of Jesus in our lives. Gina Kirkland did a great job because there are not many books that offer teachings of this kind in such an extraordinary way. I recommend this book to all parents who believe their children must learn the true meaning of Christmas and want to offer a lesson that will amuse them and make them reflect. This is the best choice they can make." - 5-star review from Readers' Favorite "This is such a wonderful book that helps kids learn and see the spirit of Christ all around us. It's a heartwarming book with a powerful message and amazing illustrations." - From Kid's Picture Book Review One night Gina Kirkland said a prayer to Jesus for guidance about her writing aspirations. She asked. Jesus answered. Inspiration came days later and put her on a very unexpected path to becoming a children's author. She's forever grateful. Visit her website at www.BeginsWithChrist.com.