Whimsical and worshipful, this exquisitely illustrated picture book, which creatively reimagines the night of Christ’s birth, introduces young children to Little Star and her role on that momentous occasion.
On any given night, Little Star doesn’t seek attention or rise high in the sky like bigger stars. She takes her place in her usual spot over Bethlehem and is happy with her low view, soft gleam, and role as the first light that shines into the eyes of newborn lambs. Little Star has one wish: “I hope nothing changes.”
But on the night of Jesus’s birth, big changes are underway. Little Star understands that “Maker was gathering the galaxy,” but still Little Star hopes nothing will change. As Maker assigns roles to stars, Little Star is filled with fear and declines the tasks Maker assigns her. But Maker persists and kindly says, “I want your help too. Be ready.” Though Little Star isn’t sure what Maker is up to, she takes up her nightly spot over Bethlehem. When the sky is illuminated with angels and myriad stars heralding the birth of King Jesus, Little Star and the other stars follow Maker’s command and go to Bethlehem.
Little Star reaches a stable and hears a baby crying. She can’t believe what she is seeing: “She gave herself a shake. Those eyes! She knew them! This Child . . . was Maker!” Little Star knows what she must do. She gleams tenderly, just as she has always done for newborn lambs, until the baby “with lamb’s eyes” stops crying. While the other stars leave their posts to bring guests from faraway, Little Star remains night after night, waiting for royal visitors to bring their gifts and worship to Jesus.
Renowned Christian author Mitali Perkins and illustrator Khoe Le, who collaborated on the equally beautiful Bare Tree and Little Wind, a reimagining of the events of Holy Week, once again shine a reverential light on God’s redemptive plan and the life of Jesus Christ.
(WaterBrook)
About the Author
Sonya VanderVeen Feddema is a freelance writer and a member of Covenant CRC in St. Catharines, Ontario.