I have received some of the season's first gifts already from my sweet friend Dessi. Dessi and I have rather mirror-image experiences. She moved from a village in Europe (Bulgaria) to homestead and homeschool in the States. I moved from a stateside homestead to a European village. We share a love for all things old school and old world. When she shared with me she had been writing stories of lesser known saints I was so very excited. When I held the most recent story in my hands I was even more excited to see another familiar name on the cover, Kimberlee's daughter Lydia Grace.
These picture books are such a lovely way for us to begin a quiet season, reading and learning together. They are genuine, written by a mother's hand. Dessi's voice rings out through the pages and I imagine her by her own hearth with her children gathered around listening to her stories.
And Lydia Grace? This is a brilliant pairing. Could there be a more creative family than this? Such pure, sweet talent. I have enjoyed seeing Kimberlee's family create peace and beauty over the years. I expect we will see great things from this little girl.
I hope you are busy reading and crafting wherever you are. May I suggest:


I haven’t seen The Saint and His Bees, but I fully agree with what you have written about Saint Felix and the Spider. I am very thankful that I bought it and I can’t wait to give it to my little boy. Dessi and Lydia Grace are truly talented.
Thank you for this review. I am so happy that you liked the book!! The illustrations are amazing!!! 🙂
By the way…I am missing my European village terrible at this time of the year!! So say hello to Europe form me 🙂
I bought St. Felix after I saw Lydia had illustrated it. It’s beautiful!
Thank you so much for your very kind review! We’re glad you’re enjoying the book! (and that’s a Pied Wagtail on that page there 😉 )
These are on my list! Can’t wait to buy next years school books! 🙂