I guess I’m rolling out the Advent/Christmas material in October… Take that, consumerist calendar! In reality, I just want to give you your options early so you can sort out your gifts! Anyway, let’s get to it.
Today’s book review is a lovely bedtime read. The story revolves around an imagined version of the stable where Jesus was born, where a Kind Ox lays. I think it was a wise choice that Martin Waddell chose the ox, since it is symbolic of stability and sacrifice – alluding to God’s eternal nature and the sacrifice of Jesus. So this ox welcomes all kinds of creatures to the stable, including an old dog, a stray cat, a small mouse, and a tired donkey carrying – you guessed it – Mary, and led by Joseph. I was particularly touched by the fact that just as the ox welcomed these creatures, God welcomes the old, the lost, the small, and the weary. And just as these animals nestled by the ox met baby Jesus, when we bring ourselves close to God, Jesus comes into our lives.
Jason Cockroft did a splendid job to depict the scenes of this story. The watercolour style illustrations have a soft almost otherworldly quality to them. The warmth of the stable and the quiet of the night is almost palpable through the images. I also like that Joseph isn’t portrayed as an old man, but more a middle-aged man who is strong and quite closely involved in Mary’s affairs (he makes a bed for Mary in the straw). My child loves pointing out the different animals!
This book is available in hardcover, paperback, and board book format. We only have the board book at home, but we are very happy with it. It is very well made with a pillow cover and red tinted foil lettering. The pages are not too thick but still sturdy, so it is perfect for little hands.
At first glance, one would say this book is Christmas themed thanks to the nativity scene. However, because it touches on themes that are not strictly tied to Christmas, it can also be read at other times of the year!
I would recommend this book for young children up to about age 7 or 8. That said, I can see it being appreciated into the older years, thanks to the symbolic layers in the text and the sophisticated illustrations.
Have you read this book? What did you think of it? What’s your (or your kids’) favourite part?
Until next time, let’s pray for each other. And remember, we can do Mom things through Christ who strengthens us!
Mom Things Through Christ 