Die Weihnachtsgeschichte

by Jane E. Ray

Here is the story of Christmas, adapted from the Gospels of Matthew and Luke and gloriously illustrated in a splendor of jeweled color by the remarkable folk painter Jane Ray. Borrowing shapes and patterns from ancient and modern folk art, the illustrations feature generous spreads filled with cunning details. Full color throughout.

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

Hardcover

First published August 1, 1991

About the author

Born in London, Jane studied art and design at Middlesex University. Her main study was ceramics and she didn't start to illustrate until she left college. Her first published work was a series of greetings cards for Roger la Borde, followed by some book jackets, and eventually black and white illustrations for a poetry anthology with Orchard Books.

Reviews

[Laurie Connolly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obsessed with these illustrations.

[Ammie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think it is likely because we have spent a lot of time in South America this autumn, but we really love the illustrations in this. And though I never nursed, I believe in it, and I think it's a wonderful thing so show, though it may be too much for some families.

[Synthia Salomon · Rating 3 out of 5]

My daughter symphony (kindergartner) chose this book as her library book of the week. I know why she chose it. She was born 2 days after Christmas and she loves images of families. The wording is where I wasn’t completely impressed. Symphony loved the pictures but fell asleep to the words of the gospel (a bit advanced). I found myself summarizing each page and adding dialogue that didn’t exist.

The book is due tomorrow she read it one time.

[Aimee Fritz · Rating 5 out of 5]

So beautiful!
I especially love how they show Mary - actually discreetly nursing her newborn.
A new favorite Christmas book for sure.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is gorgeous. I would have given this book 5 stars except the story is in the King James Version which is a little cumbersome to read. I translated into modern English as i read it.

The illustrations are just phenomenal. Mary, Joseph and the other Jews look Middle Eastern. Mary and Jesus are shown nursing in several images that I would love to have on my wall. I am going to see if i can find prints of any these illustrations. The image of the three wise men visiting King Herod is captivating.

You know what I'm going to give it 5 stars despite of the KJV.

[Isobel · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story teaches children about the importance of the story of Christmas, they learn that the son of God was born in a stable in Bethlehem and how Mary and Joseph were told there are going to raise the son of God.

I enjoyed the story because I thought the illustrations were beautiful which helped me to understand and picture the important story of Christmas.

[Kelly · Rating 2 out of 5]

Didn't love the illustrations, and the text is adapted from the Gospels, so overall not a favorite. (Parents should be aware the synonym for "donkey" is used, and that Mary is depicted nursing, in one picture without covering, depending on age of kids or sensitivity to nudity.)

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like these illustrations a lot. It shows Mary nursing!

[Joanna Salvador · Rating 3 out of 5]

Got a little scary at the end there

[Lotta Z · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely story and beautiful illustrations! Great option for a nativity book! 🤍

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful illustrations, archaic language

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Art that is intricate, exotic, rich with red and gold, glowing. A beautiful nativity story.

[LeAnne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully illustrated in primitive style with lavish use of gold accents. King James English makes it less accessible to younger children.

[Congetta · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful book about the story of Christmas using words from the Bible. Her illustrations are gorgeous and it makes me wish I could draw.