The Nativity Play

British writers, artists and collaborators on a children's TV program, Butterworth and Inkpen will delight readers of all ages in America with their Christmas book. The sweet, funny story is illustrated perfectly by brightly colored scenes of feverish activity. Boys and girls, their teacher and Mums are busy preparing for the pageant at school where all the children will have a star turn. Sam's mother soothes his fears that he'll forget his lines while she sews together the striped towels for his shepherd's costume. Tracy's mother has to remind the girl she's to be an angel, not a fairy; carrying a wand is out. At last, on the big night, the old, ever-new events are reenacted to the approval of all. Never mind a lost beard, or one actor's slipping out of character to wave to Dad in the audience. The teacher, the guests, the custodians beam with pleasure as the lights come up full on stage and the entire cast assembles for the grand finale. Mary, Joseph, Jesus and the Kings join angels, shepherds, camel, cow, donkey and sheep to sing a resounding ""Hark! the herald angels sing.'' (38)