The Shine Man: A Christmas Story

by Mary Quattlebaum

Book Overview

During the hard times of 1932, a poor shoe shine man gives a child his cap, gloves, and an angel made from a spool, then receives a wonderful gift in return. This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0802851819
• ISBN13: 9780802851819
• Release Date: January 2001
• Publisher: Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 1.35 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 11.6" x 10.9"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

A new Christmas Classic

"The Shine Man" is a wonderful book that will surelybecome a classic Christmas story. It reminded me ofmy own father's tales of life during the Depression.It teaches an important lesson in giving as well as a bit of history and will stimulate family discussion. Both the artwork and the story are excellent.

a great gift

This story feels timeless, a real feat for a children's book published this year. From the period details to the lyrical prose, I felt a sense of deja-vu throughout, as if I were reading a childhood favorite. And the last page is stunningly beautiful. I bought it for my daughter, and I'm about to go get another copy for my nephew.

Shine Man Adds Light to the Holidays

This story of finding the divine in people during the Great Depression is a gentle way of helping children (and their adult loved ones)focus on what's most important about the holiday season. Illustrations are reminiscent of Dickens, but set in the 1930's in this country. I'll think of this story (especially the last two pages)when I behold the stars in a bright December sky.

A New Christmas Classic!

The Shine Man makes the perfect Christmas present for children of all ages! In a manner consistent with her previous works, Mary Quattlebaum's use of language and imagery brings her story to life. She captures the mood of a time before I was born, and makes me believe I was there, experiencing it first-hand. The story is simple, but impactful. I can still feel the warm glow of the Christmas spirit while I search for the "Shine Man" within myself.