What’s the book about?
A little star reflects on the different ways families celebrate being together in this beautifully illustrated bedtime story that captures the magic of Christmas.
As the sun goes down on Christmas Eve, a little star rises up and watches over the celebrations below.
One family hangs a wreath on their door, another plays on the beach, another gives a present to someone who needs it more. The little star shines brighter as they share in the joy and magic of this special night.
A heartwarming, contemporary lullaby for little ones to listen to as they snuggle up at bedtime, The Brightest Christmas Star gently acknowledges that Christmas means different things to different people, but at the heart of it all is love. A perfect gift for baby’s first Christmas, or for families seeking a book that reflects the Australian Christmas experience in an inclusive way that doesn’t focus on Santa Claus or traditional family structures.
Recommended for:
Ages 2+
Three reasons to read it:
- This book is perfect for bedtime reading, especially for little ones who love to snuggle up before sleep. The gentle, rhythmic language makes it feel like a lullaby. The quiet reflections of the little star, paired with the stunning illustrations, create a calm and peaceful atmosphere. It’s the kind of story that helps kids feel safe, loved, and ready to drift off to sleep, all while celebrating the magic of Christmas.
- Unlike many Christmas stories focused on snow, reindeer, and Santa Claus, The Brightest Christmas Star reflects the Australian way of celebrating Christmas. For some families, Christmas is a sunny day spent at the beach, and this book brings that uniquely Australian experience to life. The stunning illustrations capture the warmth of the summer season, with families enjoying the outdoors, playing, and sharing special moments together. If you’re looking for a Christmas story that feels just right for Australian kids, this book is a perfect choice!
- This book doesn’t focus on one specific family structure but instead shows how different families can come together to share love and joy at Christmas. Whether your family celebrates with a big gathering, just a few loved ones, or even helps others in need, this book reflects the diversity of family experiences during the holiday season. It’s a wonderful way to teach kids that love is at the heart of every Christmas celebration, no matter how it looks.
Buy a copy of The Brightest Christmas Star here.
About the author:
Laura Motherway has spent 17 years delivering positively distracting programs for children and young people in hospital at the Starlight Children’s Foundation and has worked as a singer, improviser, actor and director. She is currently the Strategic Creative Learning Manager for the cultural organisation FORM Building a State of Creativity, where she oversees creative learning programs including the Scribblers Literature Festival in Perth. The Brightest Christmas Star is her first book.
Deb Hudson loves to draw bright, happy, colourful things. She has illustrated a number of children’s books including The Golden Thread by Amelia Donnelly and the What Zola Did series by award winning author Melina Marchetta. She lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband, three kids, energetic border collie and a bright yellow canary.
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