'Twas the Morning of Easter

Imitating the cadence and rhyme of 'Twas the Night before Christmas, author Glenys Nellist's poetic narrative invites children and adults to share the wondrous revelation and surprise that Mary Magdalene and the disciples experienced on the first Easter morning. Readers learn how the lethargy of sleeping guards at Jesus' tomb, the fearful dreams of the discouraged disciples, and the reverent preparations of Mary Magdalene were upended by an earthquake, a rolled-away stone, and the appearance of the resurrected Christ. Nellist's love for the gospel and her understanding of the meaning of Jesus' resurrection for that day in history and up to the present time are clearly conveyed in the worshipful depth of her writing. In this marvelous children's picture book, illustrator Elena Selivanova's luminescent, radiant artwork complements Glenys Nellist's compelling, spirited poetry. 'Twas the Morning of Easter clearly articulates the gospel message and would make a great addition to a family's devotional library. * The Banner *
In the tradition of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, Nellist offers 'Twas the Morning of Easter, a lyrical storybook that celebrates the Resurrection of Jesus. Children will enjoy the rhythmic lilt each page offers as they trace the events following Good Friday through Resurrection Day. Parents will recognize the familiar wording and timing as they read aloud...This new offering is prime for reading during Easter weekend, perhaps Saturday night as the kids anticipate Sunday morning. It offers a wonderful opportunity to remind them (and you?) of the true significance of Easter, why we look forward to it, and the events of that first Resurrection morning. Start a new tradition! * Kelley Matthews, Carpool Conversations/Patheos *
In this companion to 'Twas the Evening of Christmas, Nellist offers a creative spin on the biblical Easter story by employing the sprightly rhyme scheme of Clement C. Moore's 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. Nellist visits the guards posted outside of Jesus's tomb (''Twas the morning of Easter, before the sun rose,/ Two guards on a hillside were just trying to doze'), the 12 disciples ('The disciples were sleeping, but tossed in their beds,/ As visions of danger swirled 'round in their heads'), and 'Jesus' friend, Mary,' who plans to 'go to the cave with perfume and spice,/ In hopes that her gifts would make Jesus smell nice,' before encountering the empty tomb and a resurrected Christ. Selivanova contributes atmospheric digital art, rich in chiaroscuro and subtle texture...on the whole, this is an engaging retelling of the Resurrection. Ages 4--8. * Publishers Weekly *