A children’s book uncovering the Messiah’s birth through prophecy, Scripture, and story, faith-filled and family-ready.
When Carolyn Anne Venable, better known to families around the world as Granny Vee, sat down to write her children’s book O Little Tower of Bethlehem, she wasn’t simply crafting another holiday story. She was opening the pages of Scripture and history for young readers in a way that brings to life one of the greatest moments of all time: the birth of the Messiah.
From her earliest days performing music in schools and orphanages, Granny Vee has always seen children as capable of grasping deep truths if they’re told with warmth and clarity. With this book, she carries that same spirit forward, offering children and families a way to understand prophecy, archaeology, and the meaning of the Messiah’s arrival, without the westernized gloss that so often clouds the story.
A Story Rooted in Prophecy and Place
O Little Tower of Bethlehem unfolds through the voices of Isaiah and Micah, who reveal to children the prophecies foretelling where the Messiah would be born. Their message is both simple and profound: the Lamb of God would be born in the Tower of the Flock, the very place where shepherds tended and birthed the lambs for Passover.
This framework helps children (and their parents) see connections they may never have considered before. It bridges the Old and New Testament, tying together prophecy with fulfillment, Scripture with archaeology. The illustrations and language are crafted to spark excitement and curiosity, while the accompanying study questions invite families into deeper reflection.
This is not the familiar western version of the nativity that often appears in picture books. Instead, Granny Vee carefully points readers back to what Scripture and history reveal, encouraging children to see the Messiah’s birth as both a miraculous event and a continuation of God’s eternal plan.
Praise From Teachers and Scholars
The impact of O Little Tower of Bethlehem is already resonating among educators and scholars who see its unique value for families.
Mrs. Janice Sturkie, teacher of “Gospel of the Kingdom” classes and board member for the Institute for Hebraic Christian Studies, describes it this way:
“Granny’s Vee’s children’s book unlocks profound Kingdom truths through simple storytelling and illustrations. O Little Tower of Bethlehem recounts the story of the birth of Messiah, His life’s purpose and ultimately our purpose. It answers questions that perhaps you never thought to ask and mysteries become reality. You will share the children’s excitement as revelation comes forth. The Study Questions for adults and older children bring additional eye-opening truths, which will enhance the way you look at and study the scriptures. We look forward to more from the heart of Granny Vee.”
Dr. Richard Booker, a respected voice in Hebraic Christian studies, adds:
“Carolyn has done an excellent job explaining the prophecy about where the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, the Tower of the Flock. I hope many will read this book and share it with all children of all ages.”
Together, these recommendations highlight the book’s rare ability to combine storytelling with teaching, making profound truths accessible for both children and adults.
More Than a Story, A Legacy
For Granny Vee, O Little Tower of Bethlehem is more than a book; it is a continuation of her lifelong mission. Her music, which can be found on Spotify, Pandora, and Apple Music under her full name Carolyn Anne Venable, has already touched countless children with joy and inspiration. But with this book, she expands her reach, giving families a tool they can return to year after year during the holiday season.
It is a work that celebrates discovery, connection, and faith. And while it is especially meaningful during the holidays, its truths are timeless, offering a way for children to understand the Messiah’s birth and purpose in a way that will stay with them for a lifetime.
A Holiday Gift With Eternal Value
As the holiday season approaches, parents and teachers are often searching for meaningful resources that go beyond simple entertainment. O Little Tower of Bethlehem meets that need perfectly: it entertains, yes, but it also teaches, inspires, and points children toward a deeper understanding of God’s plan.
For families eager to move past surface-level traditions and into the heart of the story, Granny Vee’s book is a rare treasure. It is the kind of gift that not only delights children with story and illustration but also gives parents and grandparents the joy of passing on eternal truths.
Discover O Little Tower of Bethlehem and bring its message into your family’s celebration this season. Visit grannyvee.com to explore the book, hear Granny Vee’s music, and find timeless stories and songs that continue to inspire children and adults alike.