On That Christmas Night

Publishers Weekly

Joslin (The Goodbye Boat) is off to Bethlehem as well in a more traditional, rather labored retelling of the Nativity story, with mention of the political stirrings of the day. Cann's (Baboushka) watercolors, sparked by bits of collage and folk-art borders, bring an ancient setting into focus. The paintings often have a sunny golden glow befitting the angels and stars in the story. Ages 4-8. (Nov.) Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.

Children's Literature

In straightforward prose, Joslin retells the Nativity story for young listeners and readers. Focusing on Mary's point of view, the story effectively includes references to other, previous, events—such as the Roman Empire's requirements for defeated nations and the Angel Gabriel's visitation to Mary. Mixed-media illustrations feature marbleized paper used in tree shapes, some clothing, and in vivid red endpapers. Colorful watercolor borders and textiles—along with patterned and swirling shapes against which the figures are positioned—lend appeal as well. All in all, this is a nicely-realized story of the season. 2005, Good Books, Ages 4 to 8.
—Susan Hepler, Ph.D.

Kirkus Reviews

Joslin retells the story of the birth of Jesus in a conversational tone, covering events beginning with the arrival of Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem, with a reprise of the angel Gabriel's visitation, through the Nativity, the flight into Egypt and on into the childhood of Jesus as the son of a carpenter. The smoothly written narrative includes imagined dialogue for the characters as well as Biblical text reworked as speech, and some background explanations, on King Herod, for example, that put the Nativity story into a more complete context than many Christmas titles for children. Cann's attractive watercolor illustrations include rich colors and lots of motion: swirling clouds and trails of stars, angels with flowing hair and robes and marbled-paper effects for trees and costume details. This is a visually appealing and well-written presentation that will be a welcome resource for both parents and church-school programs. (Picture book. 5-8)