The animals of the stable are often the focus of children’s Nativity picture books, possibly because children tend to love animals and because they are so lovely in illustrations. The image of the babe in the manger, humbly surrounded by gentle animals, is a memorable part of the season.
One such book that I love is Tomie dePaola’s The Friendly Beasts. I like Tomie dePaola’s illustration style for this Christmas carol, although there are many available. I believe dePaola’s simple illustrations fit the song well. He frames the carol with three boys singing, although the majority of the book illustrates the manger, the animals, and people worshipping the newborn Savior.
Every two-page spread shows a specific animal near the baby Jesus, sharing what the animal did (in first person) to help the Savior before and after He is born. Animals include the ram, the donkey, the cow, and the doves in the rafters high. A final verse highlights that all these animals showed love as a gift to Immanuel.
When I was young, “The Friendly Beasts” was, in a way, our family Christmas carol, especially my favorite. As a family, we sang it at talent shows. My favorite verse is the one about the doves.
I love Christmas. I love the daily reminder of Jesus Christ in the decorations and in the gift giving. But I also love the traditions of Santa Claus, the festive holiday songs, the fudge and gingerbread.
This year, I decided to immerse myself in holiday picture books. My son, at one-year-old, won’t remember a thing about this Christmas. But next year he might remember something: I want to know which picture books best bring the spirit of the season in to our home so next year we’ll be ready.
