This book review is so long overdue, and I ask pardon on the delightful author Josephine Nobisso for her mercy and her grace, as this absolutely delicious picture book is worthy of many words and many readers!
First we'll talk about the book and then the amazing illustrations! I believe the very bookish Karen E. has also reviewed this lovely picture book and I hope I can also do it justice! Just on seeing it's cover, I knew it was going to be an enchanting tale of goodness.
Take It to the Queen: A Tale of Hope is one of a kind, much like it's predecessor, The Weight of A Mass. It became one of my children's favorite books right from the get go! When I read Take It to the Queen, they immediately recognized it as one of Josephine's books and they settled in for a good listen! The story is written as a creative allegory that engages the reader and the listener to discover the hidden meanings within the beautiful text. It is indeed a tale of hope and when one reads it one will see the implications of the goodness of Our Lord and His mercy in the final pages. There's also a very thorough catechism at the end of the book for more pondering!
Upon first hearing the story, my daughter Violet exclaimed, "I love how the author modeled the story after Jesus, Mary and Joseph." In addition, she loves the illustrations!
Matthias and Seamus both agreed that, "It was cool how she (the author) made the water the 'peace' of the village."
and Seamus included, "I liked everything!" Sean-Paul just kept asking to read it again :)
The illustrations speak for themselves and I would consider this book a coffee table type picture book as it is so beautiful! Visit Katalin Szegedi at her website for inspiration!
Whether you've just happened upon Josephine's beautiful books or have these special two on your shelf already, make sure you stop by Gingerbread Books to see all of her latest happenings, you won't be disappointed.
Many blessings and prayers for more beautiful tales of hope and love from this special author!
I MUST have this book!!! We soooooo love "The Weight of a Mass". Thanks for your beautiful review.
Posted by: Betty | Wednesday, January 28, 2009 at 06:13 PM