If you’re looking for a Christmas read that perfectly marries heartwarming family stories with nostalgic kitchen smells, The Shining Star Collection: 24 Christmas Advent Stories & Recipes by Karen F. Skirten (illustrated by Bonnie Lemaire) is a hidden gem. This book is a rich celebration of Christmas that blends the warmth of daily storytelling with the joy of holiday baking. https://www.kfskirten.com/
Skirten’s concept is simple yet deeply generous: read one story each of the 24 nights before Christmas, paired with a recipe rooted in her family’s own traditions. The stories are short and sweet, making them perfect for cuddling up with little ones—or even just for a quiet moment of reflection. The tone tends to be gentle, earnest, and full of meaningful life lessons about kindness, gratitude, and the true spirit of the season.
What makes this book unique from a typical advent storybook is the recipes tucked into each chapter. These aren’t just any festive ideas—Skirten draws from her own childhood Christmas traditions, offering readers a tour through her family’s beloved foods. Whether you’re baking gingerbread, shortbread, or other classic holiday treats, these recipes invite the reader into a kitchen warmed by memory and love. To sample one of Karen’s delights, try the Candy Cane Cookies in our Recipe section. A big hit with the little ones!
Bonnie Lemaire’s illustrations give the book a gentle, homespun charm. The color interior on the pages makes every story feel like an invitation—to slow down, reflect, and savor. The visuals are not flashy, but they feel just right: cozy, calm, and comforting. https://bonniella.com/
Why It’s a Delight for Foodie Families
- Dual-purpose: You’re not just reading—you’re baking. It makes Advent both a literary and culinary tradition.
- Family-centered: The recipes are not foodie experiments; they are meaningful traditions, which means that even novice bakers or busy parents can dive in.
- Faith and flavor: For those who celebrate the meaning of Christmas, the stories reinforce spiritual themes in a natural, soft way—perfect for families who want to lean into both faith and festivity.
The book is available on the author’s website at https://www.kfskirten.com/book.html You can also win a copy in our Giveaway section…but know that you won’t receive it until after the holidays. So, purchase one from Karen to enjoy now and tuck your winning book away to share with someone next Christmas.
The Shining Star Collection feels like a warm Christmas hug. For parents who want to shepherd their children through a meaningful Advent, or for anyone craving a slower, more intentional countdown to Christmas, this book is a beautiful addition to the holiday traditions. Whether you’re winding down the day reading a story or turning on the oven to bake something that smells like family, Skirten’s work brings together the flavors and the feelings of Christmas in a way that’s both tender and timeless.
Contents and images used with permission by author Karen F. Skirten. https://www.kfskirten.com/