A SHEPHERD'S GIFT

Young shepherd Matthew worries when one of his sheep goes astray, leaving her baby behind. But the hungry lamb, with Matthew on its trail, locates its mother in a warm and peaceful place—the stable where Jesus lays. Matthew basks in the comfort he feels in Jesus' presence and offers the sheep and lamb as gifts to the holy family. Colón's (My Mama Had a Dancing Heart) signature luminous artwork conveys a reverence and intimacy that will quickly capture the imagination of youngsters. Ages 4-9. (Oct.)

FYI:A Spanish-language edition, El regalo del pastor, trans. by Osvaldo Blanco ($15.95 ISBN 0-06-029785-9), is also available.