A Baby Born in Bethlehem [Hardcover]

Martha Whitmore Hickman (Author), Giuliano Ferri (Illustrator)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 1, 1999 | Grade Level: K and up

This beautiful retelling of the traditional Nativity story captures all the drama and joy, beginning with the angel's amazing announcement to Mary.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Faithful to Matthew and Luke but resourceful in its storytelling, this Nativity story is a quiet gem among the myriad Gospel adaptations available. Upon hearing of God's plan for her, Mary "went around with singing in her heart," an image that conveys the joy of Jesus' arrival in the worldAthe heart of the Christmas celebration. Ferri's dusty earth tones and round, stylized figures transport readers to the ancient Middle East. Playful touches, like an ever-present pup and childlike angels, enhance the appeal to young readers. Ages 5-9. (Sept.)
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From School Library Journal

PreSchool-Grade 2-This simple picture book details the birth of Jesus, from the angel coming to Mary to the presentation of gifts by the three wise men. Soft yet bright watercolor-and-pencil illustrations extend the brief, well-written text. Rich double-page spreads and clear facial expressions on animals, angels, and people convey the joyous mood and feelings well. On a potentially jarring note, however, the Magi are said to arrive in Bethlehem "after many weeks" of following the star and Jesus is depicted on these pages as a young child instead of an infant. Nonetheless, this is a lovely version of the familiar story that will captivate readers and listeners alike.-L.F.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company (September 1, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0807555223
• ISBN-13: 978-0807555224
• Product Dimensions: 10.3 x 8.4 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.5 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,620,903 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Very Special Christmas Story, February 27, 2002

By 

Jane Austen "cheerycherry" - See all my reviews

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This review is from: A Baby Born in Bethlehem (Paperback)

Martha Whitmore Hickman stays very close to the bible story in every detail without making things too complicated for the little ones. The illustrations are light and glorious. This is just a perfect and very sweet re-telling of the Christmas Story. (If you have a child younger than three- I would also recommend "Christmas in the Manger" illustration by Felicia Bond.)

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent Story, December 21, 2005

By 

K. Randall (United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: A Baby Born in Bethlehem (Hardcover)

This book depicts the story of the birth of Jesus as it does in the Bible, but tells it in a way that children will understand. I found it to be the most accurate of other books I've read on the same topic. Some books add elements to the story that did not happen, but not this book! The pictures were beautiful. I read it to my 4 and 2 year old and both were fascinated with it. I highly recommend this book.