ROOM FOR A LITTLE ONE: A Christmas Tale

Luminous, realistic paintings light the way through this hushed and graceful Nativity story; a confetti-like sprinkling of colors over the spreads foreshadows the festive event. On Christmas Eve, Kind Ox welcomes Old Dog and other wayward critters to rest in his stable, assuring them, "There's always room for a little one here." He invites in Tired Donkey, who carries Mary, as well, and Joseph makes a warm bed in the straw. "And so Jesus was born with the animals around Him." Eloquent, accessible and moving in its simplicity, this volume, like Asleep in the Stable (reviewed above) is an ideal introduction for the family bookshelves. Ages 3-7. (Oct.)