This Is the Stable

by Cynthia Cotten

Book Overview

A gorgeous, poetic new version of the Nativity story

Wondrous things are happening in this humble little stable. The animals are gathering round. Shepherds and wise men and angels are coming from afar. All of them are flocking to see the Christ child, born this night in Bethlehem.

Illustrated by artist Delana Bettoli in the gorgeous tropical hues of the region and told in lyrical verses perfect for reading aloud, Cynthia Cotten's...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0312384211
• ISBN13: 9780312384210
• Release Date: September 2008
• Publisher: Square Fish
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 0.29 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 7.8" x 8.8"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

Delightful telling of the real Christmas story

Excellent story moves along for Littles. Great art! Bought more after first book

A Must For All Young Readers

"This is the Stable," is one of the most refreshing books I have seen on the birth of Christ. As an adult reader looking at these enchanting pictures and reading these simple words, I couldn't wait to turn the page to the next illustration. As I read and delighted in the images, I felt a lightness of being, a hopefulness and a joy. I can only imagine the impression of what a young child would feel being introduced to the birth of this wondrous being of light through this book. The simplicity of the words of Jesus's birth are so sweet and dear and the illustrations speak volumes.They embrace a magic and universality that is so needed in our world of separation of religions. The large voluminous angel wings wrapped around this story lets one know there is a divine order in all things. My hat is off to you Delana Bertoli and Cynthia Cotton for creating this little masterpiece that shines the light and wonderment we so need in this world for our children. A must for all young readers!

A Christmas book for all ages

This is the PERFECT Christmas book - I bought two dozen copies to give away as Christmas gifts. The traditional Christmas Story is told in a simple yet engaging manner. The artwork however makes the story come alive - it's amazing. When one of my grandchildren (who happens to be half African American) saw the picture of Baby Jesus she said "Look Grammy, Baby Jesus is the same color as me - light brown!" and indeed he was. I especially loved the angels who appeared to the shepherds: Miss Bettoli had each dressed in a glorious bright colored flowered robe. When I saw that picture my first reaction was, "I knew my mother (since deceased) wasn't wearing a boring white robe in heaven - she wouldn't have worn bland colors when she was alive so I'm sure she wouldn't do it in heaven"! Can't rave enough about this book.

Rewarding for youngsters and parents alike

This is a captivating telling of the Christmas story for youngsters. But for me, the illustrations are what make this book stand out from others. Kids will be drawn to the gorgeous colors and the rendering of all the characters - human and animal - so that they're immediately likable and comforting. There's so much rich detail that every page encourages the creation of its own little story beyond the brief text. And there's something there for adults, too. We big people can appreciate these illustrations as artwork, admiring and enjoying the rendering and composition. I'd like to think that kids with a creative eye could learn something about art as well as experience this lyrical rendition of the Nativity, which makes it a twofer in my book.

A gift for the next generation

This Is the Stable tells the age old story. What makes it so special is the artwork. Each illustration tells its own story. The rich colors. The peaceful qualities of the characters. As in her previous works, Bettoli's distinctive style, her mastery of colors, and the rich symbology that transcends faiths and cultures makes this a gift to be passed from generation to generation.

Inspired Illustrations for an Inspiring Story

This is the perfect book to share the story of the birth of Jesus with my precious grandchild. As every new birth for every family is a miraculous and divine event, I love how the illustrator, Delana Bettoli, captures the magic of this universal mystery in her attention to every detail. The aura of Love and Wonder radiates throughout, in the Mother, Father and Child, in the sweetness of the animals, the Heavenly Blue morning glories, the magnificent angelic cloud formations... All families will embrace this lovely book as the artist has presented a wide range of multi-ethnic characters.