B is for Bethlehem

Wilner, Isabel. B is for Bethlehem: A Christmas Alphabet. Illustrated by Elisa Kleven. New York: Dutton Children’s Books, 1990.

B is for Bethlehem is an alphabet book which makes you think the book is for little ones – and it can be. However, Wilner has included many words and concepts which need explaining to the younger set. What is an emperor? What is a heavenly host? What is a prophet? What is a quest? What is radiance? or Tidings? or Venite? Some of these may be familiar to those who have heard the Biblical Christmas story before but others will need explaining. Kleven’s illustrations rendered in mixed media of watercolor and cut paper remind me of the Medieval style of artwork and may not appeal to youngsters as much as some other picture books might.

If you are looking for a Christmas alphabet book based on the Biblical Christmas story, B is for Bethlehem is worthy of your consideration – just consider your audience as you consider the book.

 B Is for Bethlehem: A Christmas Alphabet is available from Amazon.