Mary's Song, written by Lee Bennett Hopkins and illustrated by Stephen Alcorn, is not just a children's book, nor is it simply "another" nativity story. It is a work of art told from the perspective of a young mother.

It begins, "It wasn't the angel Gabriel." What wasn't? The next line ("His voice was so quiet-soft...") gives readers a bit of a clue. From Hopkins's inspired viewpoint, the Annunciation, journey to Bethlehem, and birth of Jesus are quiet. But then, visitors arrive and animals get noisy and all Mary wants is to be alone with her child.

Finally... "Quiet." And in that quiet, a mother rocks her newborn, sings to him, wonders what will happen as he grows up. Mary feels and shows that overwhelming, unconditional love we give our children. The ending is especially precious; all parents will recognize the truth and emotion reflected on that last page.

It's not only Hopkins's text that will captivate your heart. Alcorn's illustrations look like they belong in a museum. He has captured tender, innocent mother-child moments with softness and grace, using a unique combination of colored pencil, pastel, and watercolor.

Looking for a Christmas gift that will be treasured year-round by both children and adults? This is it.

For more about the author, go to: http://www.leebennetthopkins.com

For more about the illustrator, go to: http://www.alcorngallery.com

For the book, visit Eerdmans Books or Amazon.