- retelling of the biblical story of Christmas beginning with Joseph and Mary’s earlier days pre-marriage
- remarkably faithful to Scripture
- convo: in a story being told, it mentions babies being ripped from mothers’ arms and thrown into the Nile; a girl is slapped; unkind prejudices occur
- language: x4 stupid, x1 idiot
Type: chapter book
Ages: 8+
Author: Katy Morgan
From the get-go, the author makes it clear that these are retellings with fictional elements. It’s never hazy about what’s what; however, I do recommend following it up (or sandwiching it) with actual Scripture. We should know the true Christmas story backwards and forwards, but the possible scenarios Morgan writes out are engaging and well-worded. She includes Zechariah and Elizabeth’s story as well.
My only theological critique, while maintaining this understanding of it being a retelling, is regarding the timeline of events surrounding Jesus’ birth, their travels, the magi visit, etc. Parents might find it interesting fodder for conversation if reading this together.
And, speaking of reading as a family, it’s possible this books works as an Advent daily reading. Lacking a physical copy, I can’t confirm that, but it might be a great idea for your family this Christmas.
Like the other two books (see links below), Katy Morgan performs her own audiobook and does a stellar job. Not every author can do that. Now that I’ve listened to all three of these books, I can declare my favorite is definitely The Outsider (review below), but all three are worth reading/listening to.
Hope this helps, and may your family be enriched with this story collection!
Review of The Outsider (about Ruth)
Review of The Songs of a Warrior (about Saul & David)