MARY

Demi continues her highly regarded series of biographies of spiritual leaders with this reverential, exquisitely illustrated depiction of the life of Mary, the mother of Jesus. The format is similar to others in the series, with highly detailed paintings in jewel tones set off by patterned borders against ivory backgrounds that suggest ancient parchment. The use of intricately designed fabrics in costumes and touches of bright gold for haloes, emanating rays and additional borders are used as unifying elements throughout, adding to the volume’s elegant style with the composite effect of an illuminated manuscript. The accompanying text focuses on chronological milestones of Mary’s life from her own conception to her assumption and coronation in Heaven. The lengthy text includes familiar passages from the King James Version of the Bible as well as passages from several additional sources (which are not accepted by all Christian denominations). An Apostolic Blessing from Pope John Paul II reproduced on the back cover emphasizes the volume’s Roman Catholic orientation, though Demi’s superb paintings and the exemplary design elevate the work above these potential concerns. (Nonfiction. 8-12)