Ishtar's Odyssey by Arnold Ytreeide- A Wonderful Family Tradition for Advent

My Thoughts:

Over the years my family and I have enjoyed taking turns opening advent calendar windows as we counted down the days to Christmas. A simple, quaint tradition with a surprise picture each day,  ometimes even a piece of chocolate candy or a surprise. But sadly, I never knew what advent was all about- until now. 

I was thrilled to be asked to review Ishtar's Odyssey (written by Arnold Ytreeide)! It includes an entertaining story for the whole family, an explanation of what advent is all about, a website that details pictures, maps, and documents for an even richer experience, traditional menus/recipes (there are everyday options for the less adventurous eaters) that follow Ishtar's journey, as well as advent customs. My family and I are excited to put this book to use this Christmas season. It's going to be a fulfilling and enjoyable occasion for all of us! I truly appreciate how the author has written a wonderful story that continues each night of advent, as well as all the extras to round out this joyous event of the birth of our Lord, Jesus. We'll be making refreshments to enjoy while reading as well as lighting the candles on our advent wreath this year and I can't wait. The first Sunday of advent occurs on November 29th this year, so feel free to join us!

A new Advent family devotional from the author of Jotham's Journey! Fourth in a set of Advent adventure books for families, Ishtar's Odyssey follows the ten-year-old son of a Persian wise man as their caravan follows a star across the desert. Ishtar would just as soon stay in the comfort of the palace, but slowly he learns that there's much to see, do, and learn in this world that can't be experienced in school. He eventually meets Jotham, Bartholomew, and Tabitha as he follows his father and uncles in their search for a newborn king. 

Arnold Ytreeide's family advent devotionals have become a much-loved Christmas tradition, enjoyed by multiple generations. With over 100,000 in print they include Jotham's Journey, Bartholomew's Passage, and Tabitha's Travels. - See more at: http://www.kregel.com/arnold-ytreeide/ishtars-odyssey/#sthash.9jizVKW8.dpuf

*I was given a copy of this book from Kregel in exchange for my honest opinion. No other compensation was received.*