THE OX AND THE DONKEY

As happens in many a tale of holiday spirit, the protagonists here start out as enemies and, inspired by the miracle of Christmas, become fast friends. The greedy and cranky ox hogs all the feed and is generally rude to his weak, sad barn mate, the donkey. But when the animals' stable becomes the birthplace of Jesus, the donkey's joy softens the ox's heart. Koopmans's (The Christmas Visitor) pale and gauzy watercolors cast a reverent light throughout. Ages 5-8. (Sept.)