It's a puzzle. It's a book. It's both. The Newborn King by Lori C. Froeb briefly tells the biblical Christmas story for young children - but what makes it stand out from the crowd is that each page features an easy puzzle piece for children to insert into the book.
The boardbook begins by explaining that an angel visits Mary, telling her she's going to have God's son. Then she and Joseph go on a "long journey." When the couple gets to Bethlehem there's no room in the inn so they sleep in the stable. That night, baby Jesus is born, and Mary places him in the animal's feeding trough. Angels appear to shepherds to tell them of Jesus' birth, and they go to the stable to worship the baby.
What I Like: This is an effective way to get young children more interested in the real meaning of Christmas. The illustrations by Pauline Stewart are colorful and friendly, and each page has a place for a single, large, thick puzzle piece to fit. It's easy for young children to tell which puzzle piece goes where - and moms need not fear the book will become useless if a puzzle piece gets lost - because the same image that's on each puzzle piece is also on the page. There is a convenient cardboard box attached to the back of the book, in which puzzle pieces may be stored, if desired.
What I Dislike: There is no mention of who Joseph is - so you'll need to explain to your child that he was Mary's fiance. Also, the book is very short for the price point.
Overall Rating: Very Good.
Age Appeal: There is no recommendation, but I'd say baby to preschool.
Publishing Info: Kregel; 2011; ISBN: 978-0825455513
; boardbook, 8 pgs., $9.99.Buy Now at Amazon for $9.99
OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $5.49
Special Info: Read our reviews for other Wipe Clean books.
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