Review by Booklist Review
The traditional song gets a refreshingly eclectic interpretation in this combination holiday and counting book. Each two-page spread follows the same format. The number of the day and corresponding song lyrics appear on the left, while the right side features a full-page illustration of that day's gift. Using embroidered collage and handmade papers with rich, deeply saturated colors, Griffin creates images that reflect influences from a variety of cultures, such as drummers from Malawi, pipers from India, and a lady dancing wearing a crown of candles like Scandinavia's Saint Lucia. The fabric art is intricate and detailed, making the book better suited for lap sharing than for large groups. Detailed notes provide historical context about celebrations connected to the 12 days of Christmas. For math extensions, younger children can count the items in the pictures, while older ones can add up all the gifts, a total number that relates to the end of an old year and the start of a new one. A beautiful addition to the holiday collection.--Whitehurst, Lucinda Copyright 2015 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by School Library Journal Review
PreS-Gr 3-What is a holiday roundup without a new Twelve Days of Christmas title? Griffin's version of the song is distinctive for its lovely hand-sewn, mixed-media collages and its international representation. She includes all of the traditional cumulative verses but broadens the appeal by depicting the 10 pipers piping in India and nine drummers drumming in Malawi. The stunning artwork incorporates embroidery, beads, bric-a-brac, and stamps on each ornate but carefully composed spread. Back matter includes the history and religious significance of the song and explanations of holiday traditions and decorations and offers extensions. Children and budding crafters will pore over the pages and might even come up with some creative DIY decorations of their own. VERDICT A solid addition that should inspire collectors and makers of all stripes.-Luann Toth, School Library Journal © Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Horn Book Review
Griffin illustrates the familiar Christmas song with less-traditional, elaborate hand-embroidered fabric collages. The ten pipers are snake charmers from India, and the golden rings are worn by an elephant. Griffin concludes with unsourced information about how the song might have been used to teach children Catholic principles, such as the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. Decorative but not much more. (c) Copyright 2016. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
