Once Upon a Clear Dark Night

Once Upon a Clear, Dark Night, written by Jeffrey E. Burkart, tells the story of the three Wise Men’s trip to Bethlehem to witness Jesus’ birth. The story is based on the Bible verses of Matthew 2:1-12.

It starts with the Wise Men seeing the star in the East. They then travel to Jerusalem to see King Herod. He instructs them to go to Bethlehem and find Baby Jesus, then return and tell him where Baby Jesus is. They travel to Bethlehem and bring gifts for the new King, but they are warned in dreams to return home without going back to King Herod.

The figures of the characters in the illustrations by Natalia Vasquez remind me of wooden carvings. They are colorful but not very expressive.

What I Like: This book is part of a series of books by the publisher that tell many different stories from the Bible. I like the continuity you get in a series of books.

What I Dislike: This book is written in rhyming verse. As many of you already know, I am not a big fan of books that are written in rhyme as it is difficult to do it and do it well. Unfortunately, this book is another example of a story written with rhymes that are sometimes forced.

Overall Rating: Good.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Publisher Info: Arch books, 2011; ISBN: 9780758625793; Paperback, $2.49.

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Special Info: Read about the author at this website. Read our reviews of other books by Jeffrey E. Burkart. Read our reviews of other books illustrated by Natalia Vasquez.

Daniel and the Lions

Daniel and the Lions retells the story of Daniel and the lions den in Daniel 6 from the point of view of the lions. The book is written by Larry Burgdorf and illustrated by Natalia Vasquez.

Daniel and the Lions relates how Daniel won the favor of the king, then rivals hatched a plan to trick the king into forbidding prayer to God. When Daniel disobeys the law and is spotted praying, he is arrested and thrown into the lion's den.

From the book:

"As we were rushing for the feast
We couldn't touch him in the least.
God sent His angel here, and he
Was far more powerful than we."

What I Like: I don't typically care for rhyming books, but I barely noticed this story was written in verse. It flowed easily. Taking the point of view of the lions was unique, and it made for a bit of fun in an otherwise serious story. (At the end of the story, when Daniel's released, the lion laments how they missed a tasty meal!)

The editor also has a note to parents at the very end, addressing additional issues you may want to discuss with your child; Daniel did break the law by praying to God, despite the fact we are taught to obey the law, and not all who obey God are rescued. I found this page particularly helpful as it gave talking points with scripture references I could use with my daughter.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Very Good.

Age Appeal: 5 - 9.

Publishing Info: Arch Books, a division of Concordia Publishing House, 2010; ISBN: 978-0-7586-1867-3; Paperback $2.49.

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