Away in a Manger

by Thomas Kinkade

A child, a manger, and a warm glow of light -- this classic image represents the real spirit of Christmas. And now this traditional scene is brought to life with all the luminous charm ofthe Kinkade style. Join the Thomas Kinkade Studios in celebrating one of the most recognizable Christmas songs, illustrated here with breathtaking beauty and aglow in the Kinkade light. With a sense of reverence and awe, these paintings connect the true meaning of Christmas to today's holiday season. Away in a Manger is a book to treasure -- to read and enjoy with family and friends year after year.

Genres: Christmas, Picture Books, Childrens, Holiday, Christian

26 pages, Board Book

First published October 1, 2005

About the author

Thomas Kinkade was known as the "Painter of Light." His works, although spurned by the secular art establishment, were very popular with Christians and many others.

Reviews

[Abigail · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thomas Kinkade - or more accurately, Thomas Kinkade Studios - provide the artwork for this picture-book presentation of the beloved Christmas carol, Away in a Manger. The illustrations, which look to be done in oil paint, alternate between what looks like a (highly idealized) Victorian English country village, and the ancient Holy Land, where the Nativity Story occurs...

After perusing and enjoying the picture-book presentation of this carol done by Mike Jaroszko in 2008, I picked up the Kinkade version, done in 2005, with some interest. I was familiar with Kinkade previously - he apparently trademarked the moniker "The Painter of Light" - but mostly associated his work with greeting cards, and with the paintings sold at his stores in various shopping malls here in the states. I was not aware that he (or his studio) did picture-books, until searching for versions of this carol. I'm glad I tracked it down - Christmas carol picture-books are a pet project of mine - but unfortunately, I didn't find the book itself very appealing. The artwork sometimes looked garish, with the over-use of whites and yellows to create the impression of light. The Victorian (I think?) scenes felt somehow fake, and I didn't care for the blurriness of the paintings, which prevents the reader from appreciating any little detail. I know Kinkade has his fans, but I infinitely preferred the version done by Jaroszko, and recommend it, rather than this, to those seeking picture-book presentations of Away in a Manger.

[Jack Gabrielli · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is cute but it’s mostly just a recitation of the Christmas carol of the same name. The illustrations are nice to look at. I wouldn’t be rushing to pick this book up but i think it would make for a good read around the holiday season.

[sincerely · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful illustrations.
Simple lyrics to the well known song.
One star off for the depiction of wise men at stable.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love the note from the illustrator

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fabulous book, one I would like to own. I am a big fan of Thomas Kinkade's paintings so this definitely appeals to me. He does fantastic representations of the words to this song, I especially love how he pulls present and past together, showing how we can love Christ. My favorite page was of the children sleeping on their bunk beds. Highly recommend as part of Christmas book collection.

[Penelope · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like Thomas Kinkade's art and "Away in a Manger", you will love this book. It is the traditional carol overlayed with Thomas Kinkade's beautiful paintings. This is a book that we return to time and time again and is great for kids of all ages.

[Marya · Rating 3 out of 5]

MUCH better than the Thomas Kincade Silent Night. Away in a Manger is a speedier song AND it has less verses, which makes the pages progress nicely. But one of the little ones still wanted to know why the angels had ghost tails. Why indeed.

[Cliftonfam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought it was great. The pictures are the best part. -- Peyton

[Teri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a nice way for children to experience traditional Christmas music!!! These illustrations are beautiful. I can't rave enough about books to sing at Christmastime.

[Covenant Presbyterian Springfield Ohio]

Call Number: J Hol KIN

Available.

[Olson Family Matters · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun to read/sing Christmas song books with Madelyn! Thomas Kinkade art is not really our style - but that isn't why we got the book.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely illustration of the Christmas Carol

[Donna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Illustrated version of the children's classic Christmas song.