A Night of Great Joy

This book is a retelling of the Christmas story. In this book the author, Mary Engelbreit, tells the story of Jesus’s birth through a children’s Christmas play. All of the “usual” characters are present, including the shepherds, Mary, Joseph, the baby Jesus, the innkeeper, and the three Wise Men. I already know about the story, but it’s always nice to read it again, especially if it’s presented in a new way. There are lots of colorful illustrations in this story that give the reader the idea that he or she is actually watching a children’s play! One of the things that I really like about this book is that the author brings the story of Christmas to life. She does this by giving real personality to the characters. For example, when Joseph and Mary are trying to find a room for the night, the innkeeper gives a very stern look as she sends them on their way. Is this definitely the way the first innkeeper was? Who knows, but it’s interesting to see different interpretations. Another scene I liked was when the kids were coming to see the school Christmas play. I think this book is for younger and older kids, but maybe more for younger kids.