Benjamin Bear is so impatient for Christmas. To help the time pass, his mother tells him that every day when he opens a door on his Advent calendar she'll tell him a story--24 stories in all about another little bear and his long, arduous journey to Bethlehem. Full color.

Antonie Schneider was born in Mindelheim, in southern Germany, where she still lives. A former elementary school teacher, she has written numerous other books for NorthSouth Books, including The Dearest Little Mouse in the World; The Birthday Bear; Luke the Lion-hearted; Come Back, Pigeon!; Good-Bye, Vivi!, and Advent Storybook: 24 Stories to Share Before Christmas.

Maja Dusiková was born in Piestany, Czechoslovakia, and now lives in Florence, Italy. She has illustrated many books for both children and adults, including Advent Storybook and Silent Night, Holy Night.