Customer Reviews

Who Was Born This Special Day?

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

 

 

While browsing through the bookstore with my girls I wanted to see if I could find them a book to read during Advent in order to prepare them for Christmas. I found this book and instantly feel in love with it. The story is sweet with good rhyming patterns that even kept my two year old's attention. I brings out the Christmas Story without swaying to one certain religion. I thought Ms. Bunting did an excellent job helping young children start learning about the birth of Baby Jesus.

I first found this book on a private book re-seller's table in the teachers' workroom at the school where I taught. I bought three copies to give as Christmas presents. I gave the last one away last year, but sought a replacement out for myself. The illustrations are lovely, the simplicity of the thought is profound, and the tone fosters mystical wonder. It's a gorgeous, gorgeous book.

As a devout Christian, I heartily disagree with the review criticizing this book as non-Christian. Who else could the author have been referring to but the Babe in the Manger? Bunting, rather than mentioning the Babe's name, allows the reader to "know" who He is. Children love being able to answer the question themselves. The "impressionist" style of the pictures is delicate, soft, and inviting. I have used this book for years in preschool and have given it as gifts for new babies. It's simplicity allows the reader to absorb the awesome gift of the Christ Child.

I encountered this book first as a library book and was astounded at the quality of the illustrations. The verse is simple but lovely, and perfect for a young child. True, the name "Jesus" does not appear once, but after asking all the stable animals who was born this special night, THE child could only mean The Christ Child. I have loved reading this book on Christmas Eve with my little ones; there are plenty of books that give a more detailed account, but I love this one for the poetry, calm, and simple reverence it lends to our wait that final night.

After reading the editorial review I ordered this book. I thought it would be a great gift for a 3 1/2 yr old at Christmas time...another book about Christmas with beautiful pictures. WRONG! The book doesn't even mention 'the Christ child'- although the book JACKET does. This book will not 'evoke the true meaning of Christmas' as stated on the jacket. It'll offend anyone who already knows the true meaning. The answer to the question 'who was born this special day' was certainly NOT answered on the last page - 'it was the child'. WHAT child???