Song of the Stars: A Christmas Story

Lloyd-Jones (How to Get a Job... by Me, the Boss) refreshes the Nativity story by placing it in the context of the animal kingdom, and not just the familiar sheep and cows at the stable. White whales sing, salmon leap, every single blade of grass around the world “squeak[s] and hum[s]” the news of the coming of “the One who made us.” Jay (I Took the Moon for a Walk) offers spread after spread of animals in motion, as they make a beeline for the manger, where they form a protective circle of snouts, noses, bills, and beaks around the baby. Jay’s paintings have her characteristic craquelure finish, adding an antique element to this fresh, circle-of-life take on the Christmas story. Ages 4–up. (Oct.)