HOLY NIGHT AND LITTLE STAR

A little star overcomes her fear and learns to embrace change.

It’s almost Holy Night, and Maker wants everyone—the planets, the stars, and Moon—to play a part. Little Star, who shines gently on newborn lambs, fears big changes are in store, and whenever Maker asks for volunteers for different tasks, she declines. Maker tells Little Star to be ready—she will have a special role. On Holy Night, everyone performs their roles brilliantly. Little Star joins in the shining chorus and sees that it’s not so hard after all. When Maker sends everyone off to Bethlehem, Little Star gathers her courage and sets off. On the edge of town, she stops at a stable where a Baby cries. She looks into his eyes and recognizes the Maker. Little Star stays by the stable, her gentle light soothing the newborn king as strangers come from all around. When she rejoins the celestial celebration, she sees that although everything has changed, Maker remains the same. Perkins’ touching tale makes the story of Christmas new while weaving in the positive message of trusting the constancy of Maker in the face of change. Le’s captivating jewel-toned illustrations and Perkins’ measured unspooling of story will charm readers and make them excited to read on. The Holy Family has brown skin. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A unique retelling of the Nativity that will surprise and delight.