Read the new book that brings Santa and Jesus Christ together.
A new book, “The Spirit of Christmas,” beautifully weaves together the spiritual and secular aspects of the Christmas holiday. Readers join Santa Claus as he reflects on his love for Jesus Christ, with the story told through both words and stunning artwork.
The book was written and illustrated by the beloved artist Greg Olsen, whose paintings speak to the soul and are deeply influenced by his life experiences. Olsen’s artwork can be found in notable institutions, including the Pentagon and the NCAA Hall of Fame. In 1993, he signed a deal with Mill Pond Press, propelling his Christian-themed artwork into the national spotlight and into your home.
A Childhood in Iona, Idaho
Greg Olsen’s inspiration for the book came from his upbringing in Iona, Idaho. “Christmas was a big deal in our family. My dad would set up a near life-size nativity in the front yard with a stable that he built by hand,” he shared. Up on the roof top, you could find Santa Claus and his reindeer. Olsen noted that his home was filled with both versions of the Christmas story: the spiritual and the secular.
Blending Christ and Santa Claus
Inspired by his childhood, Olsen aimed to blend the spiritual and commercial aspects of Christmas in his book. He noticed that people often felt they had to choose between the real meaning of Christmas and its commercial side. He explained, “This book is kind of trying to meld the two by showing how the baby Jesus and the mission of Jesus becomes an inspiration for Santa Claus and his doing good.”
You can find the “The Spirit of Christmas” on Greg’s website or at Deseret Book.
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