‘Tis the season — and here are five great picture books to celebrate it!
Manger
Poems selected by Lee Bennett Hopkins
Illustrated by Helen Cann
A lovely retelling of the Christmas story from the perspective of the animals
There is a legend that describes how, at midnight on Christmas Eve, all creatures are granted the power of speech for one hour. In this rich collection, Lee Bennett Hopkins and a dozen other poets imagine what responses they might offer. The poems represent a diverse group of animals, but all come together with one singular purpose: celebrating the joy of the miraculous event.
This collection of graceful poems provides readers with a Nativity story unlike any other — at times gently humorous, at times profound, but always inviting readers to appreciate the wonder of Christmas. This book is a perfect gift for the holiday season.
The Legend of Saint Nicholas
Written by Anselm Grün
Illustrated by Giuliano Ferri
A beautiful retelling of the life of Saint Nicholas
Many stories are told about Saint Nicholas — stories about his generosity and his miracles, stories about the concern he showed for those in poverty. This warm, inviting books tells many of these stories, both familiar and lesser-known. It recounts how he ended a famine by multiplying grain from a merchant ship and how he walked on water to rescue sailors from a terrible storm. And, of course, it tells the story of how Nicholas gave his inheritance to prevent a desperate man from selling his daughters into slavery.
Anselm Grün’s simple, graceful text and Giuliano Ferri’s beautiful paintings combine to provide the perfect way to introduce young readers to the rich life of this beloved saint.
Mary’s Song
By Lee Bennett Hopkins
Illustrated by Stephen Alcorn
On that first Christmas night, the earth bursts with praise at the Savior’s birth. Donkeys bray, sheep bleat, horses neigh, and shepherds come from nearby fields — but Mary simply wants to be alone with her sweet babe.
When quiet finally falls, Mary cradles her son and sings her mother-song, leaving readers dreaming of that silent night so long ago.
Mary’s Song, with its melodic language and rich illustrations, is a lovely reminder of the meaning of Christmas and a welcome pause in the midst of a bustling world.
Read more about this book on EerdWord.
The Nativity
From the Gospels of Matthew and Luke
Illustrated by Ruth Sanderson
A new look through art at the old, much-loved Christmas story
For centuries the Gospels have told the story of the birth of Christ to people young and old throughout the world. From the breathtaking appearance of the angel Gabriel to the arduous journey of the wise men, from the chilling decree of Herod to the return of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus to Nazareth, the Nativity story has gripped and enthralled the hearts of millions.
This beloved story becomes even more vivid through the luminous, detailed paintings of artist Ruth Sanderson. The Nativity pairs select passages from Matthew and Luke (in the familiar King James Version) with Sanderson’s illustrations, displaying text and art on expansive two-page spreads. Also incorporating elaborate borders that recall medieval manuscripts, this beautiful volume is a book to be treasured and shared with family and friends.
Good King Wenceslas
Written by John M. Neale
Illustrated by Tim Ladwig
Good King Wenceslas looked out
on the Feast of Stephen,
when the snow lay round about,
deep and crisp and even.Brightly shone the moon that night,
though the frost was cruel,
when a poor man came in sight,
gathering winter fuel.
This story, based on actual events that occurred in the tenth century, tells of a kind-hearted king and his page who set out to help a poor man on a cold winter’s night and experience a miracle along the way. Tim Ladwig’s energetic paintings bring new life to the familiar words and remind readers of all ages that helping others is a blessing.
