I’ve been listening through The Lord of the Rings trilogy, re-reading them for the first time since my original read 20+ years ago. I got the Andy Serkis narration edition and they’re great. It feels like the right time of year to read LOTR—because even though the books have been around far longer than the movies, since the movies released three Christmases in a row 20 years ago, they’ll forever be affiliated with the holiday in my mind. This article has some good arguments for why we could consider them Christmas movies.
Around the Web
Gift Guide 2023–Something to Read
Looking for some gifts to give this season? Carolyn Leiloglou has recommendations for you!
- Something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read! I’m here to help you out with that last bit. These are some of the best new books I’ve encountered this year, and I don’t think you can go wrong getting these for the young (or older) readers on your list. If you’re looking to give your kids something to read for Christmas, I’ve got you covered.
Read more
10 New Family Movies to Stream This Christmas Season
Want to plan some movie nights with the family in the coming days. Check out these movie options.
- It’s not easy to find family-friendly movies nowadays. Finding a family-friendly film that everyone in the house will watch is even more difficult. But if you search hard enough, they’re out there.
Read more
Encouragement for Moms in the Busy Holiday Season
Lisa Updike has a kind word for you as you feel overwhelmed.
- The holidays. The smell of cinnamon wafts through the air. Families gather around our tables. Smiles, laughter, and music. Our hearts fill with excitement and, and…. Oh, let’s just admit it! Our hearts fill with a sense of panic!
Read more
Megan’s Favorite Books, Old and New
Megan at Redeemed Reader shares some of her favorites!
- I’m fascinated by picture books. Some people attempt to write novels in November, but I find it more challenging to write a really excellent story in so few words, one that both children AND parents will want to read, one that invites an illustrator to add another layer of meaning, one that is gently winsome or funny or complex without declaring a “message that children need to hear.”
Read more
Around the Warren
Review: James D. Witmer’s A Nose For Trouble
Théa Rosenburg reviews James D. Witmer’s new book.
- The other day, while sorting borrowed books back into our library basket (again), it struck me: my four daughters are checking out more chapter books than picture books these days. Which means that I am also reading a lot of chapter books—pre-reading for my younger girls, so I can help them find the good ones, but also “pre-reading” for my older girls because (and they know this) I just like to read all the good books first.
Read more
Reflections Upon a Pile of Clean Clothes
Grace Sincleair shares some thoughts from laundry day.
- I like folding laundry. It’s true; I really do.
Throughout middle school and high school, I did my parent’s laundry along with my own. This occurred because I had to wash my smelly gym clothes every week, but I didn’t have enough clothes to fill up the washing machine. So, I started throwing in their clothes. I didn’t always fold them. It depended on how much time I had or if I felt like it.
Read more
Something to Do with Your Kids
Make a little present for your birds this winter with these homemade bird feeders!
Something to Watch
Zach King does videos with illusions and these ones (while a bit dizzying sometimes) are all really cool!
Thanks for reading. We’re on your side.
–The Story Warren Team
You can find her at carolyncgivens.com or on Facebook or Instagram at @carolyncgivens.
- The Warren & The World Vol 13, Issue 22 - June 21, 2025
- The Warren & The World Vol 13, Issue 21 - June 14, 2025
- The Warren & The World Vol 13, Issue 20 - June 7, 2025
Leave a Reply