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32 pp.
| Simon
| November, 2017
|
TradeISBN 978-1-4814-7763-5$17.99
|
EbookISBN 978-1-4814-7764-2 Reissue (1980, Harcourt)
(2)
K-3
When a splendid procession led by the three Wise Men passes by Old Befana's house, she attempts to catch up. She never does--but is transformed into a Christmastime visitor who leaves gifts for children and sweeps their rooms clean. DePaola's ink and watercolor illustrations use flowing lines and glowing colors to propel the story (based on Italian legend) and attract the eye.
Reviewer: Martha V. Parravano
| Horn Book Magazine Issue:
December, 1980;
November, 2017
32 pp.
| Minedition
| October, 2016
|
TradeISBN 978-988-8341-26-9$17.99
(4)
K-3
Translated by Kathryn Bishop.
Elschner's retelling of the Epiphany story (with its yearly celebration detailed on the last page) focuses on the Magi and their journey to and gifts for the "new-born king." Children might require additional context to connect this to the Nativity story (Jesus is unmentioned by name). The various handsome Renaissance images may require adult elaboration, as they don't always clearly illuminate the meaning of the poetic text.
32 pp.
| Holiday
| September, 2004
|
TradeISBN 0-8234-1839-1$16.95
(2)
4-6
Photographs by
Lawrence Migdale.
In this photo-essay, young Veronica, whose family has roots in Puerto Rico and Ecuador, celebrates Dia de los Tres Reyes, or Three Kings Day. In a fairly smooth integration of general information and specifics about Veronica's celebration, the text and photos duly record the preparations and festivities and reflect her family's pride in their Latino heritage. Glos., ind.
Reviewer: Kitty Flynn
| Horn Book Magazine Issue:
November, 2004
(2)
K-3
Federico, who lives in an unnamed Latin American country, worries that on Epiphany Day the Three Wise Men won't bring him a gift because he has misbehaved. His age-appropriate concerns give this tale universal appeal, and dreamlike illustrations are suffused with the magic of the season. A glossary translates the few Spanish words sprinkled throughout the text.
Reviewer: Kitty Flynn
| Horn Book Magazine Issue:
November, 2004
(4)
K-3
Illustrated by
Ed Martinez.
Carlson explains that her story combines several Latino traditions surrounding this holiday. For their Three Kings' Day celebration, Anita and her brothers take part in a parade, go door to door looking for the baby Jesus, and leave out shoes for the Three Kings to fill with gifts. Plot and character development are less important than the enumeration of holiday customs, but the warm text and oil paintings give the book some depth.
32 pp.
| Cavendish
| September, 1998
|
TradeISBN 0-7614-5027-0$$15.95
(3)
K-3
Illustrated by
Felipe Dßvalos.
On a cold Night of the Three Kings in New Mexico, two children, snuggling with their grandmother, worry about whether the kings will be able to come and bring them presents in such weather. In a lyrical dream sequence, Grandmother shows them secret stars that guide the kings. Rich, warm illustrations help create the magical mood of the story.
32 pp.
| Dial
| October, 1998
|
TradeISBN 0-8037-2312-1$$16.99
(3)
4-6
Illustrated by
Jackie Morris.
The three wise men set off "to find the King of Kings" without Artaban, the fourth wise man, when he stops to help a dying man. Artaban travels his whole life in search of Jesus, often choosing to help others rather than fulfill his own goals. The story is told in appropriately formal language and illustrated with handsome watercolors. An author's note provides more information about the story's origins.