This whimsical tale tells the story of Jazmine the donkey’s long, difficult journey as she carried Mary, who is with child, from Nazareth to Bethlehem. It is told as a bedtime story to Jeremiah the Donkey who is Jazmine’s grandson after his adventure carrying Jesus to Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. The story gives children the realization that even if there are things we might not want to do, through the help of others, we might experience a blessing we didn’t expect. Questions for discussion with children and fun facts are included.

“A story within a story – A wonderful way to captivate a child and kindle their curiosity.  Children will smile as they recognize the story of a donkey who carried Jesus’ mother on an “amazing adventure.”  Entering the biblical story through the eyes and ears of a beloved donkey is a delightful way for children to experience the wonder and excitement in scripture.“

–Natalie C, Bloomquist, Diaconal Minister of Christian Education, New England Synod of the ELCA

“Jazmine and a Very Special Birth beautifully weaves together the stories of Easter and Christmas, offering children a way to understand the life of Jesus as a whole through the perspective of the humble donkeys that served Him.  This simple book with its colorful illustrations uses the time-honored tradition of storytelling across the generations with a mother relating the exploits of her mother to her son.  Young children can easily relate to the tender relationship of Jazmine and Mary, similar to the relationship they may have with a pet, and also to the story being told through the eyes of a donkey.”

–Holly Jo Deltgen, former Christian Ed. Director, St. Luke Lutheran Church, Gales Ferry, CT

The Reverend Danny R. Hammons received his Master of Divinity and a Master of Sacred Theology from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Language from the University of Maryland.  Pastor Danny serves as the Lead Pastor of St. Luke Lutheran Church in Gales Ferry, CT. He previously served as co-pastor with his wife, the Reverend Maria J. Hammons, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Baltimore, MD.

One of Pastor Danny’s greatest joys is teaching children (of all ages) about God’s love, especially sharing God’s story during Sunday morning children’s sermon time.You can often ind Pastor Danny carrying out his ministry with his rescue pal Riley – his best buddy and constant canine companion.

About the Illustrator

Robin T. Nelson is a children’s book writer and illustrator who has studied watercolor painting at the Lyme Academy of Fine Art.  She follows the color theory of the artist Stephen Quiller, with whom she has taken several workshops.  She recently retired from many years as a research scientist and can now devote more time to art.  Robin is a scientist at heart, a devoted wife and mother, and enjoys using her artistic skills for humanitarian purposes.