Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
In a lovely recounting of a classic Russian legend, Babushka, an elderly woman who lives alone in a modest cottage, is visited by the three wise men, who urge her to join them as they bring gifts to the newborn king. Babushka stays behind to wash the dishes (she "was forever scrubbing and sweeping, washing and wiping, dusting and polishing"); later, she feels compelled to seek out the child but can't find the star to guide her. Her journey through the snowy countryside instead leads her to cold and hungry children, whom she helps by giving the food and clothing she has brought with her. Hall's (Brother Giovanni's Little Reward) vibrant illustrations feature jewel tones of pink, purple, turquoise, and gold, setting the snowy landscape aglow as Casey (A Lullaby for Little One) gracefully delivers a message about selflessness and how kindness begets kindness. Ages 4-8. (Sept.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.
(c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
Review by School Library Journal Review
K-Gr 2-A retelling of the traditional Russian Christmas tale in which an old woman is visited by the three travelers following a star in the East to see the "newborn king." Babushka welcomes them in yet refuses their offer to join them on their journey, as there are dishes to wash and crumbs to sweep. But later that night, after waking to the light of the star, Babushka changes her mind and sets off laden with gifts, determined to find the child. The text has a warm and engaging tone, with a satisfying conclusion that focuses on Babushka's kindness and generosity. The immensely satisfying watercolor and crayon illustrations combine swirling patterns and rich textures in tones of blue, purple, gold, and rose. Particularly effective are the snowy exteriors glowing in the starlight. VERDICT Well written and beautifully illustrated, this book will make a lovely addition to holiday collections.-Teri Markson, Los Angeles Public Library © Copyright 2016. 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 Kirkus Book Review
A kind, grandmotherly woman meets the wise men and distributes toys and treats in this interpretation of a Russian folk tale.Babushka keeps busy cleaning her tiny house and creating handmade toys. One wintry night three travelers arrive at her cottage asking for food and a place to rest. The opulently dressed men tell Babushka they are on a journey to take gifts to a newborn king, and they invite her to come along. Babushka declines the invitation but later packs up a basket of clothing, toys, and sweets, as well as her cat, and tries to follow the travelers. She meets needy children along the way, giving each child a much-appreciated gift, and then continues to wander all over her country, passing out presents. The emotionally satisfying folk tale is told in lyrical, polished prose that exudes an air of magic and mystery. Captivating, full-page illustrations in a cool palette of blues and purples set the Russian scene and help create a distinct personality for the doll-shaped Babushka. She is white, one of the wise men has dark skin, and Mary and baby Jesus (seen in a dream) have dark hair and light brown skin. The wise men, Mary, and Jesus are not named as such but referred to generically or with eponyms. A delightful retelling of an intriguing tale that will make a fine read-aloud for families who celebrate Christmas as a Christian holiday. (Picture book/folk tale/religion. 4-8) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
