On That Christmas Night by Lois Rock and illustrated by Alison Jay tells the true story of the first Christmas, beginning with the Annunciation to Mary about her special role. I love Allison Jay’s artwork, and this book does not disappoint in that regard. It is beautiful and tells the story appropriately.
There are a few times that the wording seemed strange, given that this is a children’s book. For example, when the “townsfolk soon found out the news” of Mary expecting a child, they “tut tut” and “oh dear” and the author uses the word “gossip.” The next page brings the angel to Joseph, as is the case in the Bible. I suppose you could say that Ms. Rock provides a unique voice to the traditional story!
Besides, it’s true: gossip probably happened. But I try not to focus on the gossip in the village: I focus on the miracle of it all. I read the book hoping Strawberry would not ask questions about that page. (She did not.) So all was well after all.
In general, I really enjoyed On That Christmas Night, mostly because of Allison Jay’s beautiful artwork.
Note: I received digital copies of these books from the publishers for review consideration.
I had a delightful holiday season this year, in which I did not (obviously) worry about keeping up with my reviewing blog. Strawberry, aged 3, and Raisin, who recently turned 8, enjoyed a book advent calendar in which we unwrapped a different favorite picture book each day in December leading up to Christmas. This made each day a delightful reading day for us. Even though the picture books were favorites we’ve read many times over the past years, they made the season extra fun. Little Kitty Cat (two months old at Christmas) loved being passed around to all the family, and Strawberry and Raisin loved playing with their cousins.
