From Kirkus Review: (Starred Review)
Tafuri (Mama’s Little Bears, 2002, etc.) once again shows her talent for creating memorable works for younger children with this warm and tender story on the offerings-for-baby-Jesus theme. The friendly animals in the stable take turns welcoming the baby in their midst with their own animal songs (with animal noises that will invite participation from young listeners). The shy donkey holds back until the baby smiles at him, and then the donkey’s loud braying makes baby Jesus laugh. In a cozy, calm conclusion, the donkey curls up next to the manger to help keep the baby warm, with the other animals also bedded down nearby, and the story ends as it began, " . . . under that bright star, a long, long, time ago." The simple story and patterned text will serve well as an introduction to the Nativity story for younger preschoolers, and the large format and uncomplicated page design help to make this an excellent choice for reading aloud to a group. Sharp-eyed children will note that a pair of doves has an offering for the baby in addition to their cooing--a tiny olive branch that baby Jesus holds in his little fist. The motif of the dove in flight with the olive branch is also shown on the back cover and on the dedication page and referenced in the volume’s dedication, " . . . to all a song of peace." (Picture book. 2-5)
From School Library Journal:
PreS-K–"Under a bright star,/a long,long time ago...
a baby was born in a stable."This simple story follows the barnyard animals as they each come forward to greet the child.Only the shy donkey hangs back,until he is
welcomed by the infant's smile,and he sings his noisy
song.This beautifully told and illustrated tale includes
a rhythmic repetition of language and the sounds each
creature makes. Tafuri's combination of soft colors and
delicate lines sets a tone that is both engaging and comforting.A lovely rendition of an oft-told tale.
