Goodnight, Manger by Laura Sassi (Book Review)
We have an extensive collection of Christmas picture books, but that doesn’t mean I’ve stopped searching for treasures for my children to enjoy during Advent. I was pleased to receive a copy of Goodnight, Manger by Laura Sassi to review, and look forward to sharing it with my children when we launch our annual picture book countdown to Christmas in a few weeks.
I was delightfully surprised by this winsome book. We have a new baby in the house, and with four other children who find it difficult to contain their youthful exuberance, I can relate all too well to the story of trying to quiet down the excited crowd so the little one can get some sleep. In Goodnight, Manger, Laura Sassi uses simple rhymes to tell about the wiggly baby Jesus trying to go to sleep amidst a noisy audience of animals, angels, shepherds, and kings. Mary finally convinces everyone to join in a quiet lullaby and at last the baby drifts off.
Award winning artist Jane Chapman’s beautiful illustrations enhance the already charming story. Each picture catches the eye its warm, vibrant colors. The Holy Family is refreshingly portrayed with authentic ethnic coloring. And the characters exude a joy that pulls the reader into the jubilant stable and makes them want to join the festivities.
If you’re looking for a serious, straight forward telling of the story of Jesus’ birth, this is not the book for you. However, if you’re looking for a sweet bedtime story to share with your children, this book is sure to delight your entire family, not just at Christmas, but all year long!
