THROUGH THE EYES OF JOHN

Readers become privy to Jesus' last days on earth as experienced by his loyal and caring disciple John in this picture book about the Passion. Though Daybell (the Tiny Talks series; the Emma trilogy) takes some liberties by having John address readers directly in the text, the material here is largely summarized from the gospel of John (including scripture references) and will certainly sound familiar to its core audience. "The Savior's final week continued with a special supper with his twelve apostles. I was privileged to sit beside Jesus... I had always known Jesus to be quick to smile, but he was carrying a heavy burden." The solid composition of Murray's careful portraits evokes a solemnity and gravity particularly appropriate for the subject. The backgrounds, landscape and clothing suggest the ancient era, though John and other characters occasionally appear contemporary-looking in contrast. Those who wish to examine the devotion of Jesus' inner circle more closely, or who are looking for a slightly different approach to this story, will find much to like here. Ages 9-12. (Nov. 2004)