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Treasures of the Snow
This is an alternate cover edition for ISBN 9780802465757
A story of vicious revenge and hard repentance
Annette and Lucien are enemies. After Annette gets Lucien into trouble at school, he decides to get back at her by threatening the most precious thing in the world to her: her little brother Dani. But tragedy strikes. Annette is so filled with rage that she sets out to alienate and humiliate Lucien at every turn. As Lucien seeks to repent and restore, light floods both of their dark hearts and Christ proves that He makes all things new.
A story of vicious revenge and hard repentance
Annette and Lucien are enemies. After Annette gets Lucien into trouble at school, he decides to get back at her by threatening the most precious thing in the world to her: her little brother Dani. But tragedy strikes. Annette is so filled with rage that she sets out to alienate and humiliate Lucien at every turn. As Lucien seeks to repent and restore, light floods both of their dark hearts and Christ proves that He makes all things new.
228 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1950
196 people are currently reading
3485 people want to read
About the author
Patricia St. John
95 books243 followersPatricia Mary St. John spent 27 years as a dedicated missionary to North Africa - and was also a prolific children's writer. Her books are loved and treasured around the world; some have been turned into stirring films. Gripping adventures which cover real life issues are her hallmark.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 492 reviews
July 27, 2007
This book has 26 chapters and is the perfect Christmas book. My family read this out loud as every December. Starting on December first, my mother would read one chapter aloud to us every night. After we opened presents on Christmas day, we would lie around listening to the end of the story. Even though my brothers and I knew the story inside and out, it's description of sin and forgiveness, and the loving grace of God was still beautiful every time. I can remember my mom starting to cry (every time!) as she read the part where the old man tells his life story. She would have to pass the book to Dad who never managed to finish the chapter without at least a wobble in his voice. It's a fabulous book!
April 10, 2020
This is one of my favorite read-alouds. This time I picked it as the first book to read aloud to my granddaughters in our Social Distancing Morning Time. They both loved it and we read the last 4 chapters in one sitting because we couldn't help it. Even though I have read this book many times, I still got very teary in parts. Also I found it quite interesting that I related so much to the old grandmother this time. What a perfect book for such a time as this.
If you ever wonder how a book can have a moral without moralizing, try Treasures of the Snow.
If you ever wonder how a book can have a moral without moralizing, try Treasures of the Snow.
November 26, 2023
Patricia St. John created a captivating story of forgiveness and wove the Gospel message throughout in an effortless way.
'"Yes,' agreed the old man. 'You'll often hear it. Perfect love. It means love that goes on doing until there isn't any more to be done, and that goes on suffering until it can't suffer any more. That's why, when Jesus hung on the cross, He said, 'It is finished.' There wasn't one sin left that couldn't be forgiven, not one sinner who couldn't be saved, because He had died. He had loved perfectly.'" ~ 224
'"Yes,' agreed the old man. 'You'll often hear it. Perfect love. It means love that goes on doing until there isn't any more to be done, and that goes on suffering until it can't suffer any more. That's why, when Jesus hung on the cross, He said, 'It is finished.' There wasn't one sin left that couldn't be forgiven, not one sinner who couldn't be saved, because He had died. He had loved perfectly.'" ~ 224
November 2, 2021
Liked this better as an adult than as a kid
January 9, 2022
This book deserves ALL OF THE STARS!!!! I'm pretty sure my mom read this aloud when I was growing up and I know we watched the movie a few times. Patricia St John is just incredible. Her characters are so well written, the plot line makes it difficult to put the book down and the way she do gently and generously weaves her faith into the story makes my heart about burst with joy. This is the second of her novels I've read aloud and now I know I need to read her more. We all enjoyed it - at 8, 10, 12 & 36 years of age. Can't wait to watch the movie together!
January 6, 2020
This is a powerful story for both the young and old about forgiveness and the power of Jesus in our lives. The setting was charming.
June 22, 2011
I wish this book was easier to come by. Although it's had some relatively recent printings ("relative" meaning in the last 15-20 years), I know it will never be a popular book. With it's decidedly Christian agenda, I'm sure it's far too preachy for the general public. At times, it was a bit sermon heavy for me, too, but really, the story was good enough that I could endure a bit of sermonizing.
Within the plot are three stories/layers of forgiveness: the girl who smashes the boy's horse in an act of revenge, the boy who teases a younger child to the point that a horrible accident occurs, and the old man who isolates himself from his family after a series of dishonest and neglectful acts. As each character struggles to make right his actions, real growth takes place, and the healing power of the Savior's atonement is made manifest.
I actually found myself applying things from the book to my own life. One of the most meaningful quotes for me was this: "...if you spend your time putting the love of your heart into your deeds for those who are not your friends, you may often be disappointed and discouraged. If you keep on you will find happiness in loving, whether you are loved back or not."
So, although a little preachy, I think everyone would be a little better for reading this book.
Within the plot are three stories/layers of forgiveness: the girl who smashes the boy's horse in an act of revenge, the boy who teases a younger child to the point that a horrible accident occurs, and the old man who isolates himself from his family after a series of dishonest and neglectful acts. As each character struggles to make right his actions, real growth takes place, and the healing power of the Savior's atonement is made manifest.
I actually found myself applying things from the book to my own life. One of the most meaningful quotes for me was this: "...if you spend your time putting the love of your heart into your deeds for those who are not your friends, you may often be disappointed and discouraged. If you keep on you will find happiness in loving, whether you are loved back or not."
So, although a little preachy, I think everyone would be a little better for reading this book.
November 5, 2019
Oh my gosh! I forgot about this book! It was one of my favorites when I was little. I loved the details about Lućien learning to carve and when he cut through the mountain pass in the snow.
July 24, 2014
I first read this book as a child and wanted to re-read it as an adult to remind myself why it was so wonderful back then. To be fair, as an adult reader and now a novelist, I can tell you its simple structure and straightforward message is woefully out of place in today's modern world of ambiguity and flawed anti-heroes.
That having been said, that I think is the charm of the book. It is a reminder of a world that was more innocent and simpler. The book believes redemption is better than revenge, faith is to be cherished, not mocked and a budding and complex friendship between opposite gender adolescents can be stripped of any romantic overtones. The author breaks the fourth wall and delivers direct messages about faith-infused living that I had forgotten in the years of busyness that have come since childhood. This book is simple, to be sure, but sometimes we make like too complicated and the reminder of simpler times and values is desperately needed.
*While the editors of the updated version had good intentions, the watered-down text is insulting to older readers and too simple for younger ones. If you are buying it for your children to read, get the original version and make them work for it. They might learn new words in the process, which always is a good thing.
That having been said, that I think is the charm of the book. It is a reminder of a world that was more innocent and simpler. The book believes redemption is better than revenge, faith is to be cherished, not mocked and a budding and complex friendship between opposite gender adolescents can be stripped of any romantic overtones. The author breaks the fourth wall and delivers direct messages about faith-infused living that I had forgotten in the years of busyness that have come since childhood. This book is simple, to be sure, but sometimes we make like too complicated and the reminder of simpler times and values is desperately needed.
*While the editors of the updated version had good intentions, the watered-down text is insulting to older readers and too simple for younger ones. If you are buying it for your children to read, get the original version and make them work for it. They might learn new words in the process, which always is a good thing.
January 26, 2023
This is a beautiful story. Hurt, pain, growth, redemption, love.
So many lessons throughout.
So many lessons throughout.
December 6, 2022
Like I've said before, these kind of oldie books do not get enough giddy enthusiasm!
Well, I'm here to give it some. Where to start?
★★★Setting★★★
I loved the setting, Switzerland. I've never actually been to Switzerland, and before now I always thought Switzerland was...cold, and maybe it made lots of cheese?
Now I will think of cows and Annette and Dani and more cows.
Granted, I won't ever ace a test on Switzerland, but at least it comes with good memories.😁
Some of the quirks I loved were how you could see some of the stuff Switzerland people do. At least, what the Switzerland author did when she was young.
Did you know during the summer they climb mountains and live up there with their cows?😂
★★★Characters★★★
I must admit, my favorite character was Lucian. Annette still feels a little too mean for me, and I just want to coddle Lucian and keep him safe!
Lucian
Oh, poor poor Lucian. The whole story started because he messed up.
He was teasing Dani and accidentally dropped the kitten over a ravine, and Dani dove in after it.
Lucian ran away immediately, without telling anyone. It was hours later did they finally find Dani, at the bottom of the ravine, with a broken leg.
After that, Annette, Dani's very protective big sister, vows to make Lucian's life miserable as to avenge her brother.
That was wrong, and in the end Annette realizes that, too, and apologized. However, throughout most of the book, she is tormenting Lucian.
Annette
Okay, here's one of my opinions: this whole mess was actually Annette's fault.
In the very beginning, Lucian accidentally bumped into Annette's sled and sent her into a muddy snow pile (or something like that...). Before Lucian could help her or apologize (and he actually did want to) Annette's temper got in the way and she yelled some very hurtful things at Lucian, and angered him away.
After that, Lucian kicks Dani's snowman, so Annette slaps Lucian.
After that, Lucian feels angry at Dani and teases him.
And the rest is history.
Anyway, let's not dwell on that. The point is, God's love is enough for everyone and we are all sinners.
Dani
Dani, Dani, Dani.
He is very well-liked, very cheerful, and he shares the birthday of the Lord Jesus.
One would think he's spoiled rotten, and I suppose, in a way, he is. Everyone does what he wants, especially after his accident.
But I liked how it says he'll just cheer up because one person's voice is kind, or maybe because another person gave him candy.
Of course, that means it'll be supremely easy to kidnap him...
★★★Plot★★★
Oh, the plot is so much more interesting than I assumed. I would love to talk more about it, but Goodreads says my request is too big!😭😭😭
Let's leave it at "excellent excellent!"
★★★Godly Teaching★★★
I think this is my favorite part of the whole book. I don't read books like this as often as I should, and when I do, I always feel so moved!
Basically, the whole point of this book is about forgiving on another. But I think the main thing about this is how great God's love is.
I watched the movie first, and honestly, it doesn't talk about God's love as much as it does in the book.
There's this scene in the book where Annette and Lucian just sit there thinking about how great God's love is, and how it can cast out all hatred, sadness, fear, anger, and all negative stuff.
There is no mention of that in the movie.
"He is love, and when love comes in, hatred and selfishness and unkindness will give way to it, just as the darkness gives way when you let in the sunshine. But try to chase it alone would be trying to chase the shadows out of a dark room. It would be a waste of time."
Annette's grandmother said this, as well as the other quote about God's love. Ah, she is a spring full of wisdom, too!😆😆😆
___________________________________
All in all, this was a FABULOUS book and I highly recommend!!!!
Edit: I forgot to mention, I read from page 66 to 255 in one sitting! I got a huge cramp in my shoulder for reading that long...😝😝😝 It's that good!
Lady Glitter Sparkles🌺
Well, I'm here to give it some. Where to start?
★★★Setting★★★
I loved the setting, Switzerland. I've never actually been to Switzerland, and before now I always thought Switzerland was...cold, and maybe it made lots of cheese?
Now I will think of cows and Annette and Dani and more cows.
Granted, I won't ever ace a test on Switzerland, but at least it comes with good memories.😁
Some of the quirks I loved were how you could see some of the stuff Switzerland people do. At least, what the Switzerland author did when she was young.
Did you know during the summer they climb mountains and live up there with their cows?😂
★★★Characters★★★
I must admit, my favorite character was Lucian. Annette still feels a little too mean for me, and I just want to coddle Lucian and keep him safe!
Lucian
Oh, poor poor Lucian. The whole story started because he messed up.
He was teasing Dani and accidentally dropped the kitten over a ravine, and Dani dove in after it.
Lucian ran away immediately, without telling anyone. It was hours later did they finally find Dani, at the bottom of the ravine, with a broken leg.
After that, Annette, Dani's very protective big sister, vows to make Lucian's life miserable as to avenge her brother.
That was wrong, and in the end Annette realizes that, too, and apologized. However, throughout most of the book, she is tormenting Lucian.
Annette
Okay, here's one of my opinions: this whole mess was actually Annette's fault.
In the very beginning, Lucian accidentally bumped into Annette's sled and sent her into a muddy snow pile (or something like that...). Before Lucian could help her or apologize (and he actually did want to) Annette's temper got in the way and she yelled some very hurtful things at Lucian, and angered him away.
After that, Lucian kicks Dani's snowman, so Annette slaps Lucian.
After that, Lucian feels angry at Dani and teases him.
And the rest is history.
Anyway, let's not dwell on that. The point is, God's love is enough for everyone and we are all sinners.
Dani
Dani, Dani, Dani.
He is very well-liked, very cheerful, and he shares the birthday of the Lord Jesus.
One would think he's spoiled rotten, and I suppose, in a way, he is. Everyone does what he wants, especially after his accident.
But I liked how it says he'll just cheer up because one person's voice is kind, or maybe because another person gave him candy.
Of course, that means it'll be supremely easy to kidnap him...
★★★Plot★★★
Oh, the plot is so much more interesting than I assumed. I would love to talk more about it, but Goodreads says my request is too big!😭😭😭
Let's leave it at "excellent excellent!"
★★★Godly Teaching★★★
I think this is my favorite part of the whole book. I don't read books like this as often as I should, and when I do, I always feel so moved!
Basically, the whole point of this book is about forgiving on another. But I think the main thing about this is how great God's love is.
I watched the movie first, and honestly, it doesn't talk about God's love as much as it does in the book.
There's this scene in the book where Annette and Lucian just sit there thinking about how great God's love is, and how it can cast out all hatred, sadness, fear, anger, and all negative stuff.
There is no mention of that in the movie.
"He is love, and when love comes in, hatred and selfishness and unkindness will give way to it, just as the darkness gives way when you let in the sunshine. But try to chase it alone would be trying to chase the shadows out of a dark room. It would be a waste of time."
Annette's grandmother said this, as well as the other quote about God's love. Ah, she is a spring full of wisdom, too!😆😆😆
___________________________________
All in all, this was a FABULOUS book and I highly recommend!!!!
Edit: I forgot to mention, I read from page 66 to 255 in one sitting! I got a huge cramp in my shoulder for reading that long...😝😝😝 It's that good!
Lady Glitter Sparkles🌺
May 4, 2022
3.5 Stars
March 22, 2023
Here is my photo of Rossinière, the village Patricia St John based Treasures of the Snow on:
(I took both of these from the train on The Golden Pass line in March of 2023 (the snow melted very early this year - the crocuses were up, but hard to see from the train windows). Link to that Swiss rail route here: https://journey.mob.ch/en/)
If you wish to visit the village of Rossinière, please be certain to investigate accomodation, etc., well in advance - this is a 'halt auf verlangen'/ Arrêt sur demande stop only, which means the train doesn't stop there unless you ding the bell well in advance of the station. ;) Very remote!
The Alpine Narcissi that are mentioned. :)
SBB (Swiss National Railway) link for a trip to the area that Treasures of the Snow is set in: https://www.sbb.ch/de/freizeit-ferien...
I thought I was going to hate it, as I hate the movie tie-in cover (WHY do they do that?! Not only is it a major plot spoiler right front and centre, but it is also not at all accurate to the text!). I didn't hate it at all.
I'm sure this has been reviewed to death so I'll just say:
- very heavily Christian. Halfway through, I was thinking this was a book anyone would enjoy, but it increases in Biblical content. You'd have to be open-minded to Scripture, references to the life of Jesus, and blatant, demonstrative divine Love. If that's not your thing, maybe give this one a miss as it would be too central to the plot to ignore or gloss over.
- Patricia St John's opening remarks say that she hasn't named the village she grew up in (for the usual reasons: artistic license, doesn't wish to offend, etc.), and so I spent a few good minutes trying to guess which village uphill of Montreux, Switzerland she was vaguely referencing. In the end, I just gave up, and the German Wikipedia pages gives it as the Commune de Rossinière. So you can visit, if you like. ;)
- This is what Soldanella looks like:
I think the rest of the flowers mentioned would be readily identifiable (at least to me - I do live in Switzerland, though). Crocuses are crocuses (usual colour schemes of yellow, white, dark purple, stripey light purple), and the alpine narcissi are daffodil-like. Pretty. :)
This book is available for free on OpenLibrary. My version is a updated one with "sensitively adapted language". I'm betting that description of the painting of Jesus surrounded by 'all the little children of the world' was at fault for being un-PC, but that's just a guess.
This is probably not to everyone's tastes or creed, but it suited mine.
Visit Vaud! https://www.myvaud.ch/en/
(I took both of these from the train on The Golden Pass line in March of 2023 (the snow melted very early this year - the crocuses were up, but hard to see from the train windows). Link to that Swiss rail route here: https://journey.mob.ch/en/) If you wish to visit the village of Rossinière, please be certain to investigate accomodation, etc., well in advance - this is a 'halt auf verlangen'/ Arrêt sur demande stop only, which means the train doesn't stop there unless you ding the bell well in advance of the station. ;) Very remote! The Alpine Narcissi that are mentioned. :)SBB (Swiss National Railway) link for a trip to the area that Treasures of the Snow is set in: https://www.sbb.ch/de/freizeit-ferien...
I thought I was going to hate it, as I hate the movie tie-in cover (WHY do they do that?! Not only is it a major plot spoiler right front and centre, but it is also not at all accurate to the text!). I didn't hate it at all.
I'm sure this has been reviewed to death so I'll just say:
- very heavily Christian. Halfway through, I was thinking this was a book anyone would enjoy, but it increases in Biblical content. You'd have to be open-minded to Scripture, references to the life of Jesus, and blatant, demonstrative divine Love. If that's not your thing, maybe give this one a miss as it would be too central to the plot to ignore or gloss over.
- Patricia St John's opening remarks say that she hasn't named the village she grew up in (for the usual reasons: artistic license, doesn't wish to offend, etc.), and so I spent a few good minutes trying to guess which village uphill of Montreux, Switzerland she was vaguely referencing. In the end, I just gave up, and the German Wikipedia pages gives it as the Commune de Rossinière. So you can visit, if you like. ;)
- This is what Soldanella looks like:
I think the rest of the flowers mentioned would be readily identifiable (at least to me - I do live in Switzerland, though). Crocuses are crocuses (usual colour schemes of yellow, white, dark purple, stripey light purple), and the alpine narcissi are daffodil-like. Pretty. :)
This book is available for free on OpenLibrary. My version is a updated one with "sensitively adapted language". I'm betting that description of the painting of Jesus surrounded by 'all the little children of the world' was at fault for being un-PC, but that's just a guess.
This is probably not to everyone's tastes or creed, but it suited mine.
Visit Vaud! https://www.myvaud.ch/en/
December 10, 2016
This is one of my favorite Christmas books. I can't even remember the first time I heard the story--I know Muzzy read it to me before I could read myself. It has always just been a part of me.
There are so many things that it does right. It starts out with two not-very-nice Swiss children and the growth they go through is something to behold. And then there is Dani, who is such an endearing little boy.
But I like Lucien too, even if he is a little beast at the beginning. His journey through the book is one of the most painful I've ever read-- Nothing comes easily for him.
I love the story too. It is set in Switzerland (!) at Christmastime, for the most part (!!) and the main theme is all about forgiveness. It's a character-driven story (my favorite kind) and the slow melting of their bitterness is a major thread. Patricia St. John pulls it off perfectly.
I sorry to say that I don't like many Christian books, though I am a Christian. I get the feeling that most of them are trying far too hard to be spiritual, and only come off as preachy and insignificant.
Patricia St. John doesn't have that problem. The love and joy of following Christ simply bubbles off her and into her books. I don't think she even has to try--on the contrary, she would probably have to try to keep it out of them. She's like one of those people who, no matter how the conversation starts, ends up talking about how awesome God is. Not in a preachy, let's-all-be-holy way, but as if they are so filled up with the love of God that they just can't help talking about Him. That is, indeed, the very best thing about this book.
Reread: 12/9/2016 You know it's a good book when you've read it a million times and you stay up late to finish it anyway.
There are so many things that it does right. It starts out with two not-very-nice Swiss children and the growth they go through is something to behold. And then there is Dani, who is such an endearing little boy.
But I like Lucien too, even if he is a little beast at the beginning. His journey through the book is one of the most painful I've ever read-- Nothing comes easily for him.
I love the story too. It is set in Switzerland (!) at Christmastime, for the most part (!!) and the main theme is all about forgiveness. It's a character-driven story (my favorite kind) and the slow melting of their bitterness is a major thread. Patricia St. John pulls it off perfectly.
I sorry to say that I don't like many Christian books, though I am a Christian. I get the feeling that most of them are trying far too hard to be spiritual, and only come off as preachy and insignificant.
Patricia St. John doesn't have that problem. The love and joy of following Christ simply bubbles off her and into her books. I don't think she even has to try--on the contrary, she would probably have to try to keep it out of them. She's like one of those people who, no matter how the conversation starts, ends up talking about how awesome God is. Not in a preachy, let's-all-be-holy way, but as if they are so filled up with the love of God that they just can't help talking about Him. That is, indeed, the very best thing about this book.
Reread: 12/9/2016 You know it's a good book when you've read it a million times and you stay up late to finish it anyway.
February 12, 2021
I enjoy this book more and more every time we read it. This is a read aloud every Christian family would enjoy. Even my 9th grader, who missed some chapters on a few days, asked me if I finished it (when he was gone that day) not to pack it away, because he wanted to come back and finish it on his own! The Gospel presentation is so clear, vivid, and heart warming. I didn't think Lucien's salvation was quite as clear as Annette's. The old man's story is also so touching. I cried on the last lines of the chapter when Dr. Givet visits the old man on the mountain...if you've read it, YKWIM. I can't recommend it highly enough. Wait until your oldest kid is about 4th grade for it to really have an impact.
April 4, 2019
Second time I've read the book- this time with the boys. The first time I read it, I loved it! This time I noticed the theology that is most emphasized is quite off. The aging grandmother repeatedly said "perfect love casts out fear" and then continued to discuss how God would never allow bad things or danger to happen to us when we love him. I think this was spoken at least 5 times throughout the book. It brought about some good conversation with the boys about this theological error.
July 24, 2018
This story was just as charming this time as when I first read it in school as a child!
December 15, 2025
Christian parents should take the opportunity to read Patricia St. John’s books to their children! WOW! My only regret is not knowing they existed until this year. I would have loved these as a child. Patricia St. John weaves the gospel in ordinary situations that are not only nostalgic for parents, but immediately level with the emotional, relationship, spiritual moments that elementary children experience from day to day.
Treasures of the Snow has been my favorite of hers that we have read this school year (using My Father’s World: Creation to the Greeks).
Themes explored:
·forgiveness and bitterness
·God’s sovereignty
·salvation and suffering
·peril and selfishness
·friendship and revenge
·consequences and hard work
·fear and perfect love
Several times I had a big ole, burning lump in my throat while reading because of the simplicity of the gospel and the richness of the hope a believer has in Christ. Patricia St. John is a master storyteller rife with virtue, sadness, and the truth of the gospel. You (and your children!) will be helped by entering into the emotional complexities, painful consequences of sin, and the freedom found through forgiveness in this story.
Quotes I loved:
“And by faith we asked Jesus to look after Dani. Every day in prayer we have asked God to hold him safe in His arms, and even when Dani fell, God did not let go of him. His arms were underneath him all the time. Even if he had been killed he would have been carried straight home to heaven. So let us dry our tears and go on trusting God to hold on to Dani and do the very best for him”(70).
“Child and Nature are very close together, and often Nature’s silence can do more to heal angry, unhappy children than any human words can” (41).
“…Your skill can never buy you love. It may win you admiration and envy, but never love. If that was what you were after, you have wasted your time” (120).
“…if your heart is full of love, there won’t be any room for jealousy…the love of Jesus in you never pushes itself forward and never looks for attention. His love can make you go on doing your work quietly and faithfully whether anyone notices you or not. Remember, He is your master and you are working to please Him” (224-225).
Treasures of the Snow has been my favorite of hers that we have read this school year (using My Father’s World: Creation to the Greeks).
Themes explored:
·forgiveness and bitterness
·God’s sovereignty
·salvation and suffering
·peril and selfishness
·friendship and revenge
·consequences and hard work
·fear and perfect love
Several times I had a big ole, burning lump in my throat while reading because of the simplicity of the gospel and the richness of the hope a believer has in Christ. Patricia St. John is a master storyteller rife with virtue, sadness, and the truth of the gospel. You (and your children!) will be helped by entering into the emotional complexities, painful consequences of sin, and the freedom found through forgiveness in this story.
Quotes I loved:
“And by faith we asked Jesus to look after Dani. Every day in prayer we have asked God to hold him safe in His arms, and even when Dani fell, God did not let go of him. His arms were underneath him all the time. Even if he had been killed he would have been carried straight home to heaven. So let us dry our tears and go on trusting God to hold on to Dani and do the very best for him”(70).
“Child and Nature are very close together, and often Nature’s silence can do more to heal angry, unhappy children than any human words can” (41).
“…Your skill can never buy you love. It may win you admiration and envy, but never love. If that was what you were after, you have wasted your time” (120).
“…if your heart is full of love, there won’t be any room for jealousy…the love of Jesus in you never pushes itself forward and never looks for attention. His love can make you go on doing your work quietly and faithfully whether anyone notices you or not. Remember, He is your master and you are working to please Him” (224-225).
February 17, 2023
So sweet🥰🥰🥰
January 24, 2022
This is a great book for the middle grades, and especially appropriate for Christian homeschoolers. I remember reading it to my kids years ago, but reading it now as an adult, I was even more impressed with its message.
Annette and Dani Burnier live in the Swiss Alps. Their mother is dead and Annette has had the raising of Dani until finally her grandmother comes to live with them to relieve her of some of her burdens. In the next chalet lives her friend Lucien. There is a scuffle one day in which Lucien tips Annette's sled into a snowbank and then laughs at her. Her temper flares and she has harsh words for Lucien. Disgruntled, Lucien feels like everyone is against him and rather than make things right with Annette, he begins to tease 5-year-old Dani instead. He grabs Dani's kitten and holds it out over a steep ravine; the kitten scratches him in fear and he lets go. The kitten disappears over the edge and without a thought, Dani goes over after it, screaming as he crashes into the gorge below. This is only the beginning of their troubles. Annette is determined to seek revenge against Lucien, while Lucien, in his guilt and fear, hides away from the world with an old woodcarver on top of the mountain. What will it take for these two to seek forgiveness and reconciliation and bring healing to themselves and their families?
Annette and Dani Burnier live in the Swiss Alps. Their mother is dead and Annette has had the raising of Dani until finally her grandmother comes to live with them to relieve her of some of her burdens. In the next chalet lives her friend Lucien. There is a scuffle one day in which Lucien tips Annette's sled into a snowbank and then laughs at her. Her temper flares and she has harsh words for Lucien. Disgruntled, Lucien feels like everyone is against him and rather than make things right with Annette, he begins to tease 5-year-old Dani instead. He grabs Dani's kitten and holds it out over a steep ravine; the kitten scratches him in fear and he lets go. The kitten disappears over the edge and without a thought, Dani goes over after it, screaming as he crashes into the gorge below. This is only the beginning of their troubles. Annette is determined to seek revenge against Lucien, while Lucien, in his guilt and fear, hides away from the world with an old woodcarver on top of the mountain. What will it take for these two to seek forgiveness and reconciliation and bring healing to themselves and their families?
December 28, 2021
Listened to the audio during my covid sickness. Great narrator! Very good book showing the difference of accepting Jesus into your life and how it will change you. Great book to read before Christmas. Want to listen to this as a family this year as we prepare our hearts for the holiday...krb 10/2/21
So happy to relisten to this with my kids during our Christmas break while doing puzzles and lego...krb 12/27/72
So happy to relisten to this with my kids during our Christmas break while doing puzzles and lego...krb 12/27/72
February 25, 2015
We read this as a family and all enjoyed it. My only serious complaint are the few spots they author teaches kids that God promises to always protect them and never let anything bad happen to them. That is totally unBiblical. It did provide a chance for us to stop the reading and talk about that issue, which is good.
October 3, 2022
Every time I read this to my children, I cry. Yes it’s a little cheesy and unrealistic, but I love it anyway. grandmother’s description of Jesus coming in like the light into a dark room is beautiful.
December 25, 2021
i received this book for christmas 17 years ago so i was keen to reread it. it’s a beautiful story, as all of the author’s stories seem to be
December 28, 2020
Read this aloud to my 10 year old (and the 13 year old listened in too). Somehow I missed all the Patricia St. John oevre when I was growing up (despite being raised in a conservative Christian home). So this was my first introduction to her work.
I would describe this title as a little bit like Heidi in some ways, but maybe that's just the Switzerland setting. Annette and Lucien are well crafted characters and you will want to see how their difficulties are resolved.
There were times when I thought the book was possibly over-doing it on the preachiness, but my 10 year old has declared it her "favorite read aloud" and maybe her favorite story ever. It is wholesome and lovely and therefore we both highly recommend it. (It has 26 chapters so if you start December 1 you could read one chapter a night leading up to Christmas and plan to finish the day after Christmas. Which is what we did except it turned out we couldn't wait so we had a bonus chapter Christmas night.)
I would describe this title as a little bit like Heidi in some ways, but maybe that's just the Switzerland setting. Annette and Lucien are well crafted characters and you will want to see how their difficulties are resolved.
There were times when I thought the book was possibly over-doing it on the preachiness, but my 10 year old has declared it her "favorite read aloud" and maybe her favorite story ever. It is wholesome and lovely and therefore we both highly recommend it. (It has 26 chapters so if you start December 1 you could read one chapter a night leading up to Christmas and plan to finish the day after Christmas. Which is what we did except it turned out we couldn't wait so we had a bonus chapter Christmas night.)
November 29, 2018
Am citit cartea aceasta cand eram copil. Acum am recitit o pt ca voiam să văd cum o simt la maturitate. M a miscat la fel de tare. Povestea, este mai degrabă o pilda, cu tâlc, strâns legată de biblie si Dumnezeu, dar e atât de frumos scrisa încat nici nu iti dai seama. Cartea este un șir de povete pt copii, menite să i faca mai buni, mai pozitivi, sa învețe să ierte, sa nu mintă, sa isi deschida inima către Isus.
Drăguță carte de citit in preajma Crăciunului. ♡
Drăguță carte de citit in preajma Crăciunului. ♡
January 23, 2025
Such a great read aloud! Kids loved it! 😍❄️🎉
December 15, 2024
One of the best children’s chapter books I’ve read. The story presents children and adults who deal with deep hurt, bitterness and hatred; but also forgiveness, and the heart change Jesus brings to those who will receive it. Read this to your kids.
January 29, 2023
What a sweet and powerful story of redemption and forgiveness. I don’t know if I’ve ever read another story like it. Simply wonderful.
July 19, 2025
The events of Treasures of the Snow take place in the comfort of Swiss chalet homesteads high in the mountains. Key events (including the opening scene) take place during Christmastide. Treasures of the Snow continues in St. John’s particular genre of charming escape that nonetheless wades through deep water. Patricia St. John explores the spiritual lives of two children who foolishly fall into a life and death conflict. Our heroes struggle with justice and forgiveness as even the surrounding cast sounds their established relationships and familial struggles. The narrative is rich with tragedy and triumph, bitterness and forgiveness, a profound wrestling of the soul and eventual peace.
I am working on a reading project of a set of six Patricia St. John Books I purchased in the Moody Publisher’s ebook format. The sales blurb states these stories have been updated for the contemporary reader, an edit which some St. John fans dislike. Here is the link to the series:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Once again, I’m in awe of St. John’s gentle exploration of the spiritual lives of the young. And as even the old were young once, her stories inspire and challenge all ages with the soft whisper of God’s spirit. St. John’s plotting patiently moves through the children’s anguish, confusion, and questions, as well as the routines of choring, schooling and eating that pattern their days. Instead of sermonizing (too often a failing of Christian fiction), St. John gives of the yeast of the Word, and works it through the entire story that we can see growth rise. I am thoroughly enjoying this project of reading through the St. John series I purchased for Kindle. I find myself increasingly grateful for the recommendation to read St. John, and I pass that recommendation on to you.
I’ll review each title as I go and the entire set when completed. If you would like to follow along from the beginning, the first story is:
Star of Light, Patricia St. John, 1953
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The next story in the series is:
Where the River Begins, St. John, 1980
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
@Anna at GroodReads informs me there is a #BookToMovie of this title. Here's the IMDB if you want to track it down. I found it on Amazon and will post a review when we watch.
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0129454/
I am working on a reading project of a set of six Patricia St. John Books I purchased in the Moody Publisher’s ebook format. The sales blurb states these stories have been updated for the contemporary reader, an edit which some St. John fans dislike. Here is the link to the series:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Once again, I’m in awe of St. John’s gentle exploration of the spiritual lives of the young. And as even the old were young once, her stories inspire and challenge all ages with the soft whisper of God’s spirit. St. John’s plotting patiently moves through the children’s anguish, confusion, and questions, as well as the routines of choring, schooling and eating that pattern their days. Instead of sermonizing (too often a failing of Christian fiction), St. John gives of the yeast of the Word, and works it through the entire story that we can see growth rise. I am thoroughly enjoying this project of reading through the St. John series I purchased for Kindle. I find myself increasingly grateful for the recommendation to read St. John, and I pass that recommendation on to you.
I’ll review each title as I go and the entire set when completed. If you would like to follow along from the beginning, the first story is:
Star of Light, Patricia St. John, 1953
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The next story in the series is:
Where the River Begins, St. John, 1980
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
@Anna at GroodReads informs me there is a #BookToMovie of this title. Here's the IMDB if you want to track it down. I found it on Amazon and will post a review when we watch.
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0129454/
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