The First Christmas Night is a beautiful book to share with your children this Christmas. Keith Christopher retells the story of Jesus birth in a poem, similar to "The Night Before Christmas". His poem flows naturally, covering Mary and Joseph's arrival in Bethlehem, the shepherds, the angels, and the wise men. It's lyrical and soothing, a perfect book to read together at bedtime.
I have to be honest, though. What really makes the book special is the art. Christine Kornacki's illustrations first impressed me in The Sparkle Box, but they shine even more in The First Christmas Night. They are rich, vibrant, and simply beautiful!
I am sure that some purists will point out that the wise men probably didn't arrive on the very night that Jesus was born. I am sure that others might point out inaccuracies in the appearance of the stable or Mary's head covering. Those are very minor issues to me. I think the book is beautiful and we are blessed to add it to our family's Christmas collection. I'd much rather read this than read "The Night Before Christmas" to my kids.
The book itself is a large hardcover, that is a good size to hold and be seen by several kids while reading aloud. Most pages have just one stanza of text on a large two-page spread illustration. A few pages have two stanzas. This allows for a slow, gentle pacing of the story which is very relaxing. It's perfect for bedtime!
You can learn more about the book at the publisher's website: Ideals Books.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
April E.
