A Star in the Night
Author: Jennifer Gladen
Paperback: 20 pages
Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing (September 30, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1616330554
ISBN-13: 978-1616330552
Price: $10.95

Ages 5 – 12

Reviewed By: Cheryl Malandrinos

Rating: 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂

A beautiful story that celebrates the spirit of giving is what you’ll find in A Star in the Night by Jennifer Gladen.

While on his way home from Mr. Renetti’s bakery on Christmas Eve, young David has three encounters that will change him and his view of Christmas forever.

Though part of the Wings of Faith line from Guardian Angel Publishing, I wouldn’t say that I found this to be an overly religious book. Yes, it includes a Bible verse and David drops in at the local church and stands beside the manger scene, but I also believe children of other faiths and their families would appreciate the message this book relays–the importance of thinking of others.

Whether Christmas to you means the birth of Christ or Santa Claus slipping down chimneys leaving gifts, the reality is that both celebrations have at their heart a message of thinking of others, spreading peace, and sharing. That’s what A Star in the Night is all about. A young boy experiences these three encounters where he is forced to make a choice to put another person’s needs ahead of his own desires.

I am a huge fan of K. C. Snider’s artwork. Her winter scenes are some of the finest examples of her work. Looking at the front cover of A Star in the Night, I knew she illustrated the book without looking at the credit. If K.C. only illustrated books set during the winter, I would still be very happy; though I have to admit to being particularly fond of the picture that shows David inside the church.

I highly recommend A Star in the Night by Jennifer Gladen if you are looking for a children’s book that will encourage your children to think of others during the Christmas season–and hopefully all year round.

I purchased a copy of this book from Amazon. This review contains my honest opinions, which I have not been compensated for in any way.