Pres-Gr. 3.
O Holy Night, which has the lyrics of five carols, including "Silent Night" and "O, Come All Ye Faithful," comes with a CD featuring the Boys' Choir of Harlem singing traditional and soulful versions of the songs. Illustrator Ringgold's paintings, set against backgrounds of sky blue and ruby red and decorated with touches of gold, feature an African American Holy Family who are visited by dark-skinned wise men and shepherds, and angels of all races and colors. The folk-art style imbues the characters with a humanity that brings them close to readers. This is especially true of the playful baby Jesus, whose godliness is also addressed as he cavorts with cherubs and angels.
Ilene Cooper
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PreS Up–The lyrics for "Silent Night," "O Come, All Ye Faithful," "O Holy Night," "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," and "Joy to the World" are accompanied by richly colored paintings depicting a dark-skinned holy family and a multiethnic cast of shepherds, angels, and Wise Men. Deep purples and blues, highlighted by gold lettering and halos, emphasize the joy and mystery of this special night. The book begins with the text of Luke 2:1-20 from the King James Version of the Bible (in very small font) and is accompanied by a compact disc of the five carols, sung by the Boys Choir of Harlem. A lovely holiday choice.–E. M.
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