The Legend of Saint Nicholas (2012)

Little is known about the "real" Saint Nicholas. The only historically certain fact is that he was Bishop of Myra (part of Turkey today) in the fourth century AD. He died sometime between 343 and 352 AD. Therefore, "legend" is an appropriate title, as there is not enough known about him for a true biography.[return][return]This book shares some of the folklore about Saint Nicholas, patron saint of sailors (among other groups). While the book mentions Saint Nicholas Day (December 6) and the associated gift-giving traditions in some countries (Germany, the Netherlands), there is no mention of Santa Claus - for which I am thankful. However, I would have liked to see a short note at the beginning or end with a simple sentence explaining where the places (Patara and Myra) mentioned in the book are, and the time period in which Nicholas lived.[return][return]Anselm Grün is a Benedictine monk who lives in Germany and writes in German. His around-300 books have been translated into 30 languages. Giuliano Ferri is an Italian illustrator whose work can also be found in other traditional tales such as Caspar and the Star, Ant and Grasshopper, and Little Stone Buddha. His soft paintings are double-page spreads that are warm and inviting.[return][return]© Amanda Pape - 2014[return][return][This unbound galley proof was sent in exchange for an unbiased review by the LibraryThing Early Reviewers program.]

Simply told with warm, soft-colored illustrations. ( )

I loved the illustrations in this book, and so did the 4 and 7 year old children I read it to. The story was appropriate to those ages with enough detail to keep their interest but not so much as to bore them. It was a pleasure to read it with them and it is a book I won`t mind reading aloud many more times (as invariably happens with storybooks that children like). My only quibble with the book is that I would have liked the music for the St Nicholas song, since it is so frustrating to have the words and no tune. Nevertheless it would be a worthy addition to the Advent shelf of any family whose faith tradition involves Saint Nicholas. ( )

This book explains many miracles of St. Nicholas. It emphasizes that many people knew this kind man while he was a live. Even after he was declared a saint the people who prayed to him received miracles. The illustrations are wonderful and illustrate the soft and kind nature of this faithful servant of God. ( )

This is a beautifully illustrated book that tells several stories about the life of St. Nicholas and the miracles he performed before and after his death. I thoroughly enjoyed it and know my children will too. ( )