Father and Son: A Nativity Story
Kindergarten-Grade 4–McCaughrean provides a different twist on an age-old story. This quiet picture book imagines the thoughts and fears of Joseph as he reflects on the birth of the Christ child. How can he teach the boy any songs or games or jokes when He invented them all? How can he clothe, feed, or protect the youngster when it is He who made the Earth and everything in it? Despite his concerns, Joseph finally accepts his role, deciding that he can offer his child a helping hand, for everyone needs an extra pair of hands from time to time. The simple prose clearly elucidates Joseph's plausible thoughts and puts into basic terms the mystery of Jesus's human and divine natures. Joseph's gentle tone is most appropriate, and the wonder he expresses will give readers the chance to ponder some of the great mysteries of life. Negrin's pastel illustrations reinforce the tone of the text, and his use of color is well suited to father's mood. However, while the background objects are well drawn, the quality of the human figures varies somewhat. Nevertheless, the story's alternative point of view will have appeal. This is a good follow-up to the traditional story, especially for older children, who can appreciate some of the subtleties of the man's concerns.–Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, LaSalle Academy, Providence, RICopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.