Reviews

The Night of His Birth is a Junior Library Guild Selection.

2020 Moonbeam Children's Book Award Winner - Gold Medalist, Holiday Category

“A lyrical, moving account of Jesus' birth, from his mother's perspective. . . . Divine.”

—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“A lyrical meditation on Christ’s birth, told by His mother Mary as the newborn sleeps in her arms. . . . the text reads aloud beautifully, and the watery, speckled illustrations convey the humble humanity of mother and Child alike.”

—The Horn Book Magazine

“Filled with spirit and joy.”

—Booklist

“Beautifully illustrated. . . . Mary’s puzzled sense of wonder over the newborn Jesus will resonate with both adults and children.”

—Christian Century

“The Night of His Birth is an unmistakably beautiful story of the birth of Jesus from a fresh and enlightening perspective. By capturing the beguilement, the joy, and the gratitude of Mary—an unsuspecting mother of a child of unimaginable magnitude—through poetic text and narration, the author enables readers to grasp the depth of the experience. The magnificent, alluring illustrations by Norwegian author and illustrator Lisa Aisato illuminate the pages and bring the story to life. . . . Ideal for educators to share with their students in Christian elementary school classrooms around the nation during the days leading up to the celebration of the Christ Child’s birth.”

—Seattle Book Review

“The narrative is filled with Mary’s awe and wonder. . . . A lovely addition to a Christmas collection.”

—Redeemed Reader

“We can't recommend it highly enough!”

—Storypath

“Katherine Paterson is a poet. Her writing pairs wonderfully with the ethereal illustrations of Lisa Aisato in this excellent reflection of Christ’s birth from the perspective of Mary. Adults and mature children alike will delight in the simple yet deep meditation of the nativity.”

—The Living Church

“Stunning illustrations and lovely writing.”

—The Presbyterian Outlook

“A wonderfully inspiring story of the nativity, The Night of His Birth is unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, Sunday School, and community library picture book collections for children ages 6-10.”

—Midwest Book Review

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Holidays and Seasons