Reviewed by Stella Redburn

This lavish, full colour hardback celebrates Christmas with a broad sweep of essays, poems, songs, decorating ideas, Scriptures, pictures and even recipes, both from the Gaithers and numerous members of their Homecoming Friends. I found it all very readable, especially recollections of special Christmases in the past, like Emily Sutherland's story about how they dressed up as teenagers to make a live Nativity, or Lily Isaacs writing about her first Christmas in a Christian family. The book is organised in sections themed around the five senses. It makes a great preparation for Christmas, especially as again and again it emphasises the true meaning of the season and the importance of passing this on to the children. The recipes in the Taste section look mouth-watering although of course they are weighed in American cups and have some ingredients that need translating. Considering the Gaithers' huge popularity (their Southern gospel videos and CDs have now sold a staggering 100 million copies) there is clearly a huge fan base to buy this book which, despite its studied folksiness, many people would appreciate it as a special Christmas gift.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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In A Homecoming Family Christmas, Bill and Gloria Gaither and their Homecoming friends have created a magnificent celebration of Christmas in words and pictures.

This elegantly designed treasure is filled with heart-warming stories, recipes, favourite memories, photos and inspiration--brillantly organised in sections themed around the five senses.

The Gaithers take readers on a sleigh ride of sights, sounds, aromas, feelings and flavours to help them experience the joy and fullness of this blessed season.

A perfect gift, A Homecoming Family Christmas will ignite the Christmas spirit in every reader.