In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Anthony DeStefano on his book Christmas in Heaven (September 16, 2024)

In charming rhyming verse, Christmas in Heaven tells the poignant story of a little boy who is sad because his grandmother has passed away. It is Christmastime, and the boy asks his grandfather where his grandmother might be. The grandfather responds by telling the boy his fondest hope—that his grandmother is in Heaven.

The boy closes his eyes as his grandfather describes that Christmas is Jesus’ birthday and that a great, festive party is taking place in Heaven. It’s a scene filled with angels and saints, music and laughter, joy and love, and most of all, abundant life!

This beautiful little book will give children an unforgettable vision of Heaven while strengthening in them the theological virtue of hope — a hope that will assist them throughout their lives in dealing with fear, grief, pain, and suffering.

It will also introduce them to the incredible world of the saints. Indeed, the most beloved saints and angels make appearances in Christmas in Heaven, all doing the things they’re best known for: 

• St. Honoré, patron saint of bakers, is making Jesus’ birthday cake
• St. Cecilia, patron saint of music, is leading the choir
• St. Lucy, patron saint of the blind, is lighting the Christmas tree
• St. Gabriel is blowing his horn St. Nicholas is leaving presents under the tree
• St. Thérèse is giving out flowers St. Francis is surrounded by little animals
• St. Patrick is handing out shamrocks 

The book includes a helpful two-page glossary with short descriptions of each saint depicted. Christmas in Heaven combines a delightful teaching on the saints with a sweet story of a boy who, through the eyes of faith, gets to see his grandmother again in Heaven. It is sure to tug at the heartstrings of readers young and old, bringing yuletide joy to all.

 https://sophiainstitute.com/product/christmas-in-heaven/