Joseph
Ages 5^-9. Most libraries probably own several versions of the popular biblical story about Joseph, but this one is well told and particularly handsome. Wildsmith's ink-and-watercolor artwork has never seemed more polished, his colorings more carefully shaded (especially where the blue of the desert sky meets the gold of the sand). He also uses the Egyptian setting of pharaoh's court to beautiful effect, making it come alive with pyramids and hieroglyphic-encrusted walls and spires climbing to the sky. The gilt edging of the pages also gives the book the glow of majesty. For any library needing (or wanting) just one more edition, this book makes a fine addition to religion shelves.Ilene Cooper