Reviewed by: Kenzi Melody, a student in the professional writing program at Taylor University

Introduction

Title: The Crooked Christmas Tree: The Beautiful Meaning of Jesus’ Birth

Author: Damian Chandler

Publisher: FaithWords Publishing

Publication Date: October 2017

Format: Hardback

Length: 130 pages

OVERVIEW

First thing on the day after Thanksgiving, the author and his family tromp into the store 
to choose a Christmas tree. This year, the children have picked a crooked, drooping, dud of 
a tree that their father can barely stand to look at. However, a look from his wife prompts
him to drag the disappointing tree home and struggle to make it everything a Christmas tree
should be. Along the way, Chandler learns some important lessons about his own crooked
condition, and the indescribable grace of God.

In nineteen bit-sized chapters, Chandler whisks readers away on a journey beneath the crinkly,
pine-scented, glitter-infused trappings of Christmas. Instead of bemoaning superficial facets
of the season, such as Christmas lights, Santa, and gifts, he embraces them while at the same
time leading readers beyond them to recognize the true meaning of the holiday. With every-day
relatability and a dash of humor, he reminds us that we were all crooked trees when God found
us in a dusty corner and propped us up with His grace. 

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

5 out of 5 stars

Suggested Audience

Christian adults, especially parents, looking for an encouraging devotional book for the 
Christmas season.

Christian Impact

During one of the busiest seasons of the year, it’s important to ground our celebrations in the truth of the One we’re 
celebrating.

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