A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE AT GROUND ZERO

A family of mice seeks to help soothe the spirits of people affected by the fall of the World Trade Center in this Christian picture book honoring those lost on 9/11.

Eight tiny brown mice once lived inside the twin towers in New York City. Ackerman opens with a brief description of the “terrible tragedy” on 9/11 but does not give context to young readers (for whom this event long predated their births), explaining only that the towers fell and that the mice emerged from the rubble. In the story, the small creatures watch as rescue workers strive to help, and they look on in awe as a cross of steel girders is uncovered. “God was in the midst of all of this,” the mice realize. When Christmas comes, the mice want to help bring back the holiday spirit, so they drag a tree to the foot of the cross and pray. “Thousands of stars falling from heaven” cover the tree, giving all who see it a Christmas miracle. Ackerman’s clear message of God’s presence in the midst of horrific events is smoothly woven throughout the tale. While Manta’s watercolor illustrations present a diverse array of New York residents and volunteer workers, the presentation of the mice as part of a Christian worldview implies a single-faith, Christian America. The author’s lengthy sentences tend toward run-ons, making this story best suited for confident, independent readers.

An animal tale for families looking for a Christian-centered portrayal of 9/11.