Customer Reviews

The Easter Story

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

The text of "The Easter Story" is a simplified retelling of the Biblical narratives from the nativity through Christ's resurrection and appearance to Mary Magdeline and the disciples.

The story line is simple enough for young children and provides a nice synopsis for older readers.

The illustrations are a disappointment. The illustration on the book's cover is the best composed and best-drawn of all the illustrations, and it is not representative of the pictures within the story. While the paintings are vivid in color and contail historical details which add to a child's understanding of the stories' context, they are poorly composed and leave even a adult puzzling over just what is being shown. The artist has chosen to avoid showing the face of Jesus, which is not in itself a problem, but the perspectives of the illustration shift often enough to be confusing. In one picture, the viewer is looking out over Jesus's shoulder; in another, toward him; in another, he is not included at all. The artist's choice of subjects is somewhat surprising, as well. In the illustration of the crucifiction, the cross is shown in deep shadow, with light and emphasis on a slumbering Roman guard.

Altogether, The Easter Story is not a bad children's book. It covers the basic events of the life of Jesus Christ at a level appropriate to children of widely varying ages. However, given the emotional, historical, and spiritual impact of the subject matter, The Easter Story leaves much to be desired.

It is not easy to retell the Easter story for young children. How do you portray the horror of the crucifixion or the joy of the disciples? This simple retelling never talks down to the child, yet doesn't shock with graphic detail. The illustrations are beautiful. reverent, and show realistic people and faces rather than cartoonish ones. This rendition clearly converys the awe and wonder of those who cherish this story.

Our family has fallen in love with this book and its beautiful pictures. It's my 22 month old son's favorite book. I found it interesting that Jesus' face is never shown in the pictures. There are a few details in the story that are not completely accurate, but overall it's a wonderful book.

This is without a doubt one of the very best books for young children I have ever read telling the ages old story of the Resurrection. It is uplifting and the art is fantastic. I would highly recommend it to any parent.

This book teaches hatred. It clearly blames the Jews for Jesus's death, although modern scholarship--including that of the Vatican--has put that fairy tale to rest. Illustrations and wording make it very clear that the author is passing along the old canard of Jews as Christ Killers. Put this one on the list of books that help children hate others. "You've got to be carefully taught." I'd prefer to give this book -1 star.