A Donkey's Little Tale by R. Mitchell Scott is a beautifully written story in poetic verse and told through the eyes of the little donkey that carried Mary to Bethlehem. We are transported to that long ago night when all creation celebrated the birth of Christ even the animals. A timeless Christmas story for all ages. Ruth Carmichael Ellinger, Award-Winning Author Preparing for the journey to Bethlehem in order to register for the census, Joseph groomed the gentle donkey colt chosen to accompany him and his with-child bride. Along the way, the charming little beast of burden committed to memory all he saw and heard along the way in hopes that his intuitive insights and attention to detail would be passed down for generations to come. Little did he realize he would be a witness to the birth of the Christ Child, never dreaming he would be pressed into the service of a King. Thus, the little chronicler fills in many gaps in the love story of Joseph and Mary, and the joyous birth of Jesus. This is his little tale.
Yep another Nativity version but a refreshing one that can be directed towards the more open-minded adults and children as the donkey takes you on the trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem and into the stable where the Christ child was born. Sweet and simple this book has gentle rhymes along with its peaceful pictures that will help to convey the reader back to what events may have been like on that trip and special night.
There is a beautiful emotional underlining to the story that allows the reader to feel the love and peace of the transpiring events. And although the donkey has the front row seat he is more humble and tender than he is boastful while accepting the humble starting of Christ as being just right.
The illustrations were what caught my eye the most for most were dark and subdued but not to the point where it felt dark. Instead you were given a chance to enjoy the night the way it should have been meant. And although the presentation of the human characters were a bit awkward I enjoyed seeing in the back of the book the reason for their overall appearance.
This could definitely become a treasure and new tradition for gathering families who like to read just before going off to bed.
If a donkey could talk, what would he see and say as Mary and Joseph made their way to Bethlehem on that holy night? With gentle illustrations and poetic contemplations, Scott has spun a tale of that life changing event prophesied hundreds of years beforehand. Perfect for a bedtime story, children will find peace and joy as they read this touching and true tale of the coming of the Christ Child. Adults will be inspired by the author’s note at the end, detailing the events leading up to the book’s publication.
A lot of nativity stores are rehashes of the same thing. What I found unique about A Donkey's Little Tale was that even though the nativity story had been told through an animal's point of view before, this tale had a fresh perspective.
The story flowed off the tongue quite well. The cadence is sure to delight the little reader.
I adored the simple illustrations. Almost a Precious Moments vibe to it, the elegance and cuteness is something with will keep little ones interested as the story of Christ's birth is read.
When I look at books for little children meant for the adult to read to the child, I primarily look for two things: attention-grabbing illustrations (to keep the child interested) and few words on the page (so we don't miss too much if the child gets anxious to look at the next page). This book beautifully delivers on both.
The illustrations are adorable! Realistic enough that they are easily recognizable yet cutesy enough to draw in a wide range of kids. The rhyming couplets tell enough of the story to give little ones the basic story without cheating them of some of the deeper aspects of Christ's birth that amaze theologians. Overall, this is an excellent addition to a child's Christmas collection.
DISCLOSURE: I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."